One of Wildcats’ top defensive backs is on a tear to end his collegiate career, and the league has taken notice. On Monday, Arizona defensive back Dalton Johnson was named Big 12 Defensive Player of the Week for the second straight week.
After earning the award following his 18-tackle performance in the Senior Day win against Baylor, Johnson finished with three tackles, while also forcing a fumble, an interception, and two pass breakups in the 23-7 Territorial Cup victory over ASU.
Johnson’s forced fumble came midway through the fourth quarter, ending a nine-play, 62-yard drive, effectively stifling ASU’s comeback effort. His interception was the final nail in the coffin, coming with 1:24 to play in the fourth quarter, sealing the victory for Arizona. In total, the Wildcats held the Sun Devils to 214 yards of total offense, including 114 passing yards, while also forcing five total turnovers.
Johnson finishes the regular season tied for the second-most interceptions in the Big 12 this year with four takeaways, and sixth in the league in total tackles with 97.
The Wildcats have now earned seven Big 12 weekly awards this season, the most weekly conference awards in a season since securing seven in 2023. Dalton Johnson is also the second Wildcat to take home multiple Big 12 Player of the Week awards, joining Arizona quarterback Noah Fifita, who earned the award following wins over Oklahoma State and Colorado.
Johnson and the Arizona Wildcats will learn their bowl game destination and opponent this coming Sunday, December 7. Arizona is seeking their 10th win of the season for just the fourth time in program history.