They believe Johnson, a fifth-year senior, was a victim of a deliberate chop block from the blind side by Montana offensive tackle Cody Balogh. Johnson, as he was helped off the field at Washington-Grizzly Stadium in Missoula, was seen yelling back at the Grizzlies' offense.

"What happened to him was a joke," nose guard Bryce Scanlon said. "It was no accident and completely uncalled for."

McBride said the injury was the worst of that type that he's seen.

"It was blatant," he said. "I don't know what the intent in a kid's mind. It was ugly, that's all I know. It shouldn't have come down to that."

Johnson's injury depletes an already thin defensive line, one that has played its best game against No. 1-ranked Montana. The Grizzlies (4-0) scored one offensive touchdown and four field goals.

Weber State (0-4), which plays host to Sacramento State (1-3) on Saturday at 1:05 p.m., led 10-3 at the half. Johnson is expected to undergo surgery Tuesday. He had 28 tackles, 1.5 sacks and a blocked kick.

According to McBride, Montana coach Bobby Hauck telephoned on Sunday.

"He said, 'I don't understand why [the player] did what he did,' " said McBride. When asked if the Balogh should be disciplined, McBride replied, "Let their conscious be their guide."

Sophomore quarterback Jimmy Barnes will not undergo orthoscopic surgery on his sore left knee. Instead, the knee has responded to rest. Barnes, who did not make the trip to Montana, participated in light drills Tuesday.

Sophomore cornerback Josh Morris broke a bone in his right hand and is doubtful for Saturday's game against Sacramento State. Morris has played in four games, started one and has 15 tackles, including seven solo.

martyr@sltrib.com