Following Ohio State’s 41-21 victory over Oregon in the College Football Playoff quarterfinals at the iconic Rose Bowl, Tez Johnson, a pivotal player in the game, displayed an exemplary show of sportsmanship that resonated deeply with fans and spectators alike.
As the final game of his college career drew to a close, Tez Johnson patiently waited for his moment to speak with Ohio State quarterback Will Howard. Standing behind Howard as he completed a postgame interview, Johnson seized the opportunity to deliver a heartfelt message. With cameras capturing the exchange, Johnson expressed his admiration for Howard, stating, “I respect you, boy. Everything you have, bro, you deserve it. Go win it all for your team. I respect you. They need you. Keep leading them.”
The interaction between Johnson and Howard, marked by genuine respect and support, quickly garnered widespread attention for its display of sportsmanship and camaraderie. In a moment that transcended the competition on the field, Johnson’s words underscored the values of mutual respect and encouragement that define the spirit of sportsmanship in collegiate athletics.
Following his uplifting exchange with Howard, Tez Johnson gracefully exited the Rose Bowl field, likely embarking on the next chapter of his career as he transitions to the professional level. Despite Oregon’s defeat in the game, Johnson’s performance throughout his college tenure has left an indelible mark on the sport.
Hailing from Pinson, Alabama, Johnson’s journey to collegiate success has been characterized by resilience and determination. Initially an under-recruited three-star prospect, he began his collegiate career at Troy University before transferring to Oregon, where he emerged as a standout performer and integral part of the team. His prolific contributions on the field, culminating in impressive statistics during the 2023 season, solidified his reputation as a premier receiver for the Ducks.
Prior to his viral moment with Howard, Johnson’s inspiring story was featured on ESPN’s “College Gameday,” shedding light on his path to the College Football Playoff quarterfinals and his close bond with the Nix family, including his former high school teammate and adopted brother, Bo Nix, who currently plays for the Denver Broncos. The segment not only highlighted Johnson’s athletic accomplishments but also underscored the significance of his personal connections and the support system that has propelled him to success.
Reflecting on Johnson’s journey, former Alabama coach Nick Saban expressed some lighthearted regret over his program’s oversight in recruiting the talented athlete. Saban humorously remarked, “What I’m sitting here thinking about is Tez Johnson is from Birmingham, 45 minutes away from Alabama, and we didn’t recruit the guy. Who was recruiting Birmingham? And I should’ve fired their (butt)! He went to Troy first, and we didn’t recruit when he left there either.”
As Tez Johnson transitions to the next phase of his football career, his legacy as a player and ambassador of sportsmanship remains an enduring testament to the values
