Former Kentucky WR Stevie Johnson Recalls Famous 'Stevie Got Loose' Play

Johnson details how he got open for the game-winning touchdown against Louisville in 2007

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

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In an interview with the 'Cover Zero' podcast at Super Bowl Radio Row, former Kentucky wide receiver Stevie Johnson recounted the details behind his famous 'Stevie Got Loose' play against Louisville in 2007. Johnson explained how he recognized the defensive coverage and told his quarterback to look for him, leading to the game-winning 57-yard touchdown catch.

Why it matters

The 'Stevie Got Loose' play has become an iconic moment in Kentucky football history, showcasing Johnson's football IQ and the strong connection he had with quarterback Andre Woodson. The interview provides a rare behind-the-scenes look at how the play unfolded from Johnson's perspective.

The details

Johnson said he noticed the defense's coverage the play before and told Woodson to look for him. When they ran the same coverage again, Johnson got wide open downfield for the game-winning 57-yard touchdown catch. Johnson finished the game with 3 receptions for 65 yards and 2 touchdowns, helping Kentucky upset No. 1 LSU that season.

  • In 2007, Johnson was a senior wide receiver for the University of Kentucky.
  • The 'Stevie Got Loose' play occurred during Kentucky's game against Louisville in 2007.

The players

Stevie Johnson

A former wide receiver for the University of Kentucky who spent 9 years in the NFL after being a 7th round draft pick in 2008.

Andre Woodson

The starting quarterback for the University of Kentucky in 2007, when he connected with Stevie Johnson for the game-winning touchdown.

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What they’re saying

“I actually seen it the play before. The play before that there was a penalty I believe and the guys wasn't covering me. The safety stayed on Jacob Tamme and we ran four verts. And when back to the huddle, and I said 'Dre, it's there. Just look at me. I'm telling you. It's there.'”

— Stevie Johnson, Former Kentucky Wide Receiver (Cover Zero Podcast)

“And yeah, Stevie got loose.”

— Stevie Johnson, Former Kentucky Wide Receiver (Cover Zero Podcast)

What’s next

The 'Stevie Got Loose' play remains one of the most memorable moments in Kentucky football history. Fans continue to celebrate Johnson's football IQ and connection with Woodson that led to the game-winning touchdown.

The takeaway

The 'Stevie Got Loose' play exemplifies the importance of football intelligence and player-quarterback chemistry. Johnson's ability to recognize the defensive coverage and communicate that to Woodson allowed them to execute the game-winning play, showcasing the value of preparation and trust between teammates.