USM offensive coordinator Johnson accepts challenge

By Daimon Eklund
American Sports Writer

Jay Johnson is preparing for his third season as a University of Southern Mississippi football assistant coach, his first as the Golden Eagles' offensive coordinator.

Johnson was promoted to the coordinator position last month, after former offensive coordinator Rip Scherer was fired. Last season, Johnson coached running backs; in 2003 he coached tight ends.

Johnson met with the media this week. Here is an excerpt of the interview, presented in question and answer format.

Question: What are your thoughts on being moved to offensive coordinator?

Answer:When you look at Southern Miss, and you look at the respect the program garners around the country, it's exciting. So to be here, and to be a part of it, and now to have this opportunity, it's a challenge, but an exciting one.

<a href='http://www.hattiesburgamerican.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20050117/SOUTHERNMISS/501170304/1050' target='_blank'>AMERICAN: Jay Johnson Q&A</a>