Jackson and Johnson are trying to become the second Miami Hurricanes player to win the Thorpe Award and first since Bennie Blades third annual Thorpe Award in 1987. Jackson and Johnson are one of just three sets of teammates named as Thorpe Award Semifinalists.
Johnson has missed two and a half games this season but still leads Miami in tackles with 44. He is trying to lead the Hurricanes in tackles for the second straight season. Johnson was the Miami Hurricanes team MVP last season.
Jackson leads the Miami Hurricanes with four pass breakups.