As a freshman, Johnston was called on several times to step up when A.J. Erdely was injured. It wasn't all smooth sailing for Johnston, but the bowl game was an opportunity for him to show us what he may have in store for his first year as the clear starter for UAB. Johnston trounced NIU in the Boca Raton Bowl, throwing for 373 yards, four touchdowns, and an interception. Like his predecessor Erdely, Johnston can do a lot of damage with his legs. He was actually second on the Blazers in rushing yards, despite only playing in a handful of games. There is an intriguing upside to Johnston now that he's the unquestioned starter. Let's see if that bowl game was really a sign of things to come.