Boise State junior safety Jeron Johnson has put up a strong season thus far, leading the Broncos with 32 tackles and four interceptions.

Johnson had two interceptions and recovered a fumble last week at Hawaii.

"He's an unsung hero on that defense," Boise State head coach Chris Petersen said. "... he's turned up his pass coverage skills and been a bit more of a ball hawk."

The junior is one of 16 players in the nation with four or more interceptions thus far.

"I'm being put in the right place, honestly," Johnson said.

Senior cornerback Kyle Wilson had five interceptions last season and eight in his career, but hasn't had one yet this season. There's no jealousy in the fact Johnson is the one coming down with the ball more often than not.

"I'm happy for him — somebody's gotta get it, so I'm glad it's someone on our team," Wilson said.

Though he has the team high in tackles, and did last season with 98, Johnson has some competition.

Junior nickel Winston Venable has 27 tackles, including six against Hawaii.

"Jeron can do a lot of things," Venable said. "He can be tough in the run game, but can also cover a lot of different types of receivers. He's what you want back there. We have a friendly competition, but the gap's closing."