Smith takes job on FAU staff

Former UCF star running back is leaving Orlando for his first full-time college football coaching job.

Smith was named the Owls’ new running back coach and will be working for new FAU head coach

The former running back, who owns the Knights’ career rushing record with 4,679 yards over three seasons, served as an offensive quality control assistant at UCF last season on head coach

staff. It was a support staff position and not considered a fulltime coaching role.

Johnson, a third-year player who started 31 consecutive games at left tackle for the Seminoles, has decided to forgo his senior season.

Johnson announced his decision through a statement released by the school.

“As the next step in my career begins and I continue to mature, I will have you all to thank for giving me a solid foundation in my path to succeed,” Johnson said, thanking head coach

offensive line coach tight ends coach

and FSU’s support staff.

“To my teammates, my Nole brothers — thank you for always supporting me, encouraging me and holding me accountable. I am honored to be your brother as a member of the Seminole family for life.”

Johnson was a twotime winner of the Atlantic Coast Conference’s Jacobs Blocking Trophy, given to the league’s best offensive lineman.

Johnson was a first team All-American by the Walter Camp Football Foundation, and a second team selection by Sports Illustrated, Fox Sports, and the American Football Coaches Association this season.

Johnson was FSU’s most experienced linemen and anchored a unit that helped running back

become the school’s leading rusher and touchdowns leader in three seasons.