Washington State Football: 3 Takeaways From Season Opening Win at Wyoming

Mike Leach, Washington State football. (Photo by Gene Sweeney Jr/Getty Images)
Mike Leach, Washington State football. (Photo by Gene Sweeney Jr/Getty Images) /
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Washington State Football
PULLMAN, WA: James Williams #32 of the Washington State Cougars moves the ball against the Stanford Cardinal in the second half at Martin Stadium on November 4, 2017, in Pullman, Washington. Washington State defeated Stanford 24-21. (Photo by William Mancebo/Getty Images) /

Junior tailback James Williams is a difference maker. 

James Williams is explosive and, at times, electric for the Washington State Cougars offense. He carried the ball 16 times for 84 yards. Additionally, the 205-pound workhorse showed the ability to catch the ball out of the backfield with 10 receptions for 53 yards. Williams had a rushing and a receiving touchdown on the day. 

He also showed the versatility that could help him land on an NFL roster. Williams made a great leaping catch and stayed in bounds for a touchdown. Later in the game, he bulldozed his way for a score. The multi-talented back was very impressive and will be a major key as the Cougars hope to make another bowl appearance. If he keeps up this kind of production, he might not be playing in Pullman next season, he’ll be playing on Sundays.

Williams showed consistency, which Leach mentioned in his post-game meeting with the media. The Cougars will need his consistency throughout the long 2018 season. His 26 touches were most on the team and complimented his freshman backfield mate Max Borghi, who also scored a rushing and receiving touchdown. The freshman rebounded from an early fumble to show some promise. His resilience is a quality that Cougars fans can appreciate.