Tale of the Tape: LSU RB Josh Williams Poised To Elevate Game To New Heights
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LSU running back Josh Williams elevated his game to new heights during the 2022 season under Head Coach Brian Kelly. After becoming a starter, the former walk-on proved he can be an all-around back, putting it all together for the Tigers.
Williams came into the 2022 season near the bottom of the depth chart. With Armoni Goodwin, John Emery Jr. and Noah Cain all fighting for RB1 duties, Williams had to fight for reps, but that’s nothing new for the savvy veteran.
Earning a scholarship during his time in Baton Rouge, Williams has fought for everything during his football career. That includes his breakout 2022 season.
We took a look into what made the Tigers’ starting back so successful:
Versatility and Tenacity
Williams did it all last season. After proving he is much more than a third down back, the veteran in this LSU locker room put it all together. Whether it be needing to pick up a block on a pass play or show off his speed, Williams showed he’s the most complete running back the Tigers have in their arsenal.
Once Goodwin (LSU’s starting back at the time) went down with a hamstring injury, it shined light on Williams, who never looked back after earning the starting gig after. Mr. Reliable for this backfield, it’s the gritty style of play that Brian Kelly enjoys so much.
After the victory over Florida, Williams earned the game ball where Kelly detailed what made Williams so special:
“He stopped the charge of defensive ends, caught the ball coming out of the backfield, picked up blitzers,” Kelly said after the victory. “He actually picked up the defensive end by himself a couple of times when we missed the slide, ran the ball coming out in the third quarter with authority that gave us great momentum.”
The Production
Williams ended the season leading the running backs in attempts, yards, yards per carry and more. The proof is in the product. When Williams is given an opportunity, he flourishes. He proved that in 2022.
Ending the season with 97 rushing attempts for 532 yards and six touchdowns, it was as complete of a season as one could have asked for given the Tigers used four backs in the fall. Williams also averaged a whopping 5.5 yards per carry for LSU.
Despite missing a few games after getting banged up towards the end of the season, Williams burst onto the scene for the Tigers this season as he looks to carry his momentum into spring ball next month.
Character/Locker Room Presence
On the field, Williams is as solid as they come, but off the field is where he earned the respect of his teammates as well. Players have raved about the type of guy Williams is in the locker room and it’s a piece that has him so respected.
A player we could envision wearing the coveted No. 18 jersey next fall, Williams fits the mold of what this program is looking for to rep the purple and gold.
Williams returns to Baton Rouge next season with something to prove. Surrounded by hype, gifted players and a championship or bust mentality, the former walk-on has the chance to elevate his game to new heights once again for Kelly’s group.
“It's a beautiful thing. It's an exciting thing because you see all the potential,” Williams said ahead of the SEC Championship Game.
