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Illinois Football: Isaiah Williams snags Freshman of the Week honors

By Rees Woodcock

Nov 14, 2020; Piscataway, New Jersey, USA; Illinois Fighting Illini quarterback Isaiah Williams (1) throws a pass to tight end Luke Ford (82) as Rutgers Scarlet Knights linebacker Olakunle Fatukasi (3) defends during the second half at SHI Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 14, 2020; Piscataway, New Jersey, USA; Illinois Fighting Illini quarterback Isaiah Williams (1) throws a pass to tight end Luke Ford (82) as Rutgers Scarlet Knights linebacker Olakunle Fatukasi (3) defends during the second half at SHI Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports /
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The Illinois football team wasn’t done receiving recognition on Monday.

Illini kicker James McCourt won the Special Teams Player of the Week award. He made the game-winning kick to take down the Rutgers Scarlet Knights on Saturday. But the Illini couldn’t have gotten to that point without scoring the football.

One of the big reasons the Illini could put up 23 points was the fact they had Isaiah Williams behind center. The Big Ten took notice of Williams’ great week of football and gave him the Big Ten Freshman of the Week honors.

This isn’t an award that Illinois wins very often. The last time an Illini took the award home was in 2016 when Patrick Nelson won. Williams earned this honor with his big-time numbers.

Through the air, Williams wasn’t anything to write home about, going 7-of-18 for 104 yards. He didn’t have any interceptions, though. It wasn’t the arm of Williams that won him the award. He ended up with 31 carries for 192 yards and 1 touchdown. This is why he earned the Freshman of the Week award in the Big Ten.

What is next for Williams and the Illinois quarterback position?

In my opinion, I believe Williams should get the start against Nebraska. Let’s build on what this kid did against Rutgers. He was really starting to make an impact for the Illini.

I loved how Williams was able to hit some players down the field. He wasn’t terribly accurate on the move, but he clearly can be a solid passer of the football with time. But Williams’ legs give the Illini a chance in each game they play. That is why I want him starting against the Cornhuskers.

Illinois won’t let that happen, though. I realize that Brandon Peters is going to be back for the Nebraska game, so there is about a 99-percent chance he will be back under center for the Illini.

dark. Next. James McCourt earns Special Teams Player of the Week

At the bare minimum, Williams should see multiple packages per game and maybe even a series or two. Illinois needs to realize that not only do they have a more impactful player behind center with Williams, but one of their fertile recruiting grounds is also watching in the St. Louis market. Playing Williams would have positive effects on more than just the record.

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