Two weeks ago, Joe Williams was a retired former running back. Flash forward, and not only has he helped the Utes to two straight wins, but he also is setting records for Utah. On Saturday, Williams rushed for a school-record 332 yards, finding the end zone four times in a huge Pac-12 win for the Utes. The win sets up a big time matchup against Washington this week, with both teams ranked in the top-20 in the country.
Williams’ mark broke the record held by Mike Anderson, and it was also the most yards ever allowed to a single player in UCLA’s history. Williams broke that record with his fourth touchdown, as he surpassed the mark set by former NFL star Edgerrin James. He broke off touchdown runs of 3, 43, 64, and 55, and now has over 500 yards combined in his first two games back.
Utah has been one of the more consistent teams in the Pac-12 this season, and is one of only three ranked teams in the conference. With Williams back in the fold, the Utes may actually be able to hang with the fourth-ranked Huskies next week. If anything, Williams’ return has breathed new life into the program, and could lead to him playing on Sundays in the near future.