After an injury to sophomore quarterback Drew Barker just two games into the season, Johnson stepped in vs. New Mexico State and provided a veteran and calming presence. He went 5-4 as a starter, completing 145-of-265 passes for 2,037 yards and 13 touchdowns. He also carried the ball 97 times for 327 yards and three scores.
The 6-foot-2, 185-pound Californian will forever hold a place in Kentucky fans' hearts in leading UK to a thrilling upset of the 11th-ranked Louisville Cardinals in the regular-season finale (41-38). Also guiding UK to a pair of come-from-behind wins in relief roles, Johnson led the Cats to their best record in seven years and a bowl game for the first time since 2010.
The Golden Arm Award is awarded based on a player's accomplishments both on and off the field. Candidates must be a college senior or fourth-year junior on schedule to graduate with their class. This year marks the 30th anniversary of the award and the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Educational Foundation.
The Golden Arm Award committee will announced the Top 15 finalists in September and the presentation to the winner will be Friday, Dec. 8.
