Gamecocks Running Back David Williams Could Have A Breakout Season
South Carolina Gamecocks senior running back Brandon Wilds was initially unsure whether or not he was going to the NFL or not at the end of the 2014 season. He did however, decide to stay as a fifth year senior.
Big impact running back Mike Davis on the other hand, decided to pursue his NFL dream and left at the end of his junior year. With that, it leaves Brandon Wilds to lead the team and should be a great head start for Steve Spurrier as he tries to rebuild his offense.
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Although, there may be a possibility that Wilds may not be the starter after all, as there is a very intense running back battle going on with sophomore David Williams. Williams had enjoyed a breakout summer, and looked excellent at the spring game.
To absolutely look over Brandon Wilds wouldn’t be very smart, considering he’s accumulated 1,277 rushing yards and averages over 5 yards per carry throughout his career, while backing up Marcus Lattimore and Mike Davis.
As a freshman last season, David Williams showed his big play ability that is a must have for running backs, and managed to have 256 yards and 2 touchdowns on just 45 carries.
“There’s a big running back competition, and I respect Dave to the utmost,” Wilds said this spring. “He reminds me of a great running back. We are coming out here competing every day.”
When it all comes down to it, the head ball coach will do everything he can to get the ball in some shape or form, into the hands of superstar Pharoh Cooper. But this will not be an easy task while breaking in a new quarterback and the fact that teams will be locked in on Cooper.
With that said, dependable runners who can get the tough yards when things aren’t going your way are going to be key, and Williams has the speed to take it the distance. At 6’1″ and 216 pounds, he’s also got the size to run between the tackles, and he can catch too.
There is no doubt that both Williams and Wilds will get the ball a whole lot. Utilizing both of these running backs will maximize the full potential of South Carolina’s running game. But, Williams will have every opportunity to prove himself and potentially have a break out year.