Central Michigan inks Vaca lineman

Multi-tasking won't be an issue.

Todd Johnson is heading east and north to continue his football career. And while the 2006 Vacaville High School graduate might be a little colder on the sideline at Central Michigan, at least he'll be on the sideline a little longer.

"My true love is defense," said Johnson, who stepped up and played on both sides of the line last fall at American River College in Sacramento. "I hadn't played offensive line since high school, so last year was really different. I'm looking forward to just playing on defense.

The 6-foot-4, 295-pound tackle could get to play right away for the Chippewas, who may have some holes to fill after winning their second straight Mid-America Conference title in 2007.

Central Michigan finished 8-6, losing to Purdue 51-48 on a late field goal in the Motor City Bowl.

The Chippewas play Purdue again this season, along with Georgia and Indiana.

Despite the battles against some of the biggest schools in the NCAA, it was a small-town flavor that appealed to Johnson. The school is based in Mount Pleasant, a town of just 26,000.

"Everyone was really friendly. It's kind of a small-town, family tradition ... way smaller than Vacaville," Johnson said. "It's a really good school, and one of the best options I had.

"They said I will have the chance to compete for a starting job right away, which was what I wanted. I can't wait to get started."

Johnson and the hippewas will open the season at home Aug. 28 against Eastern Illinois. They travel south to face Georgia the next week.

Johnson played three varsity seasons with the Bulldogs, 2003-05. He often paved the way on offense for running back Evan Williams, who signed with East Carolina last fall.

Current Vacaville seniors who signed letters of intent include running back Terrance Dailey (Washington), linebacker Josh Kaddu (Oregon) and defensive back Johnny Feaster (Sacramento State).

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