Johnson has to get serious again

Bobby Johnson enjoyed the past four football seasons simply being a spectator.

After a 34-year coaching career, including successful tenures as the head coach at Furman and Vanderbilt, Johnson retired in July 2010. He has appeared occasionally on sidelines since then, but never with a headset or play sheet.

“I was just a fan, just like everybody else,” Johnson said. “I enjoyed watching it on TV. I enjoyed going to certain games. I was never in a situation though where I thought I was evaluating anybody. You look at it differently when you’re retired.”

Johnson must change his perspective and objective next season.

The College Football Playoff has announced that Johnson has been selected to serve on its selection committee. Johnson will replace Archie Manning, who stepped down from the panel last year, in its inaugural season, citing health issues.

“Everyone on the committee is going to miss Archie,” Bill Hancock, executive director of the College Football Playoff, said in a news release. “But we are delighted to welcome Bobby to the committee. His extensive knowledge of the sport and his notable integrity make him a perfect member of this group.”

Johnson served as an assistant coach at Furman from 1976 to 1992. He coached one season, in 1993, at his alma mater, Clemson, before returning to Furman as head coach in 1994.

Johnson compiled a 60-36 record through eight seasons at Furman. He directed the Paladins to Southern Conference championships in 1999 and 2001. Furman reached the Division I-AA playoffs each season from 1999 to 2001 and advanced to the national championship game in 2001.

Johnson accepted the head coaching position at Vanderbilt the following season. He won 29 games through eight seasons. That included a 7-6 record in 2008, Vanderbilt’s first winning season since 1982. That season, Johnson also steered Vandy to a win against Boston College in the Music City Bowl, Vandy’s first bowl victory since 1955.

This story was originally published April 2, 2015 at 12:04 AM with the headline "Johnson has to get serious again."