:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/65931065/D6t_niNW4AIBU_k.0.jpg)
The Iowa offense is predicated on balance. At its core, the coaching staff wants to establish the run to set up play action and open up the passing game. That all comes down to how effectively the team can run the ball. We saw that play into Iowa’s offense this season.
As we look at the class of 2020, the coaching staff looked to address the need at running back with a pair of commits both named Williams. One of which is Oak Lawn, Illinois native Leshon Williams. Today, Williams officially becomes a Hawkeye.
Windy City Williams | #Swarm20 @LboogieG https://t.co/OXeNkLu015 pic.twitter.com/utSsx0RikO
— Hawkeye Football (@HawkeyeFootball) December 18, 2019
Williams looks like a prototypical Iowa running back. He’s got an excellent frame at 5’10” and 205 pounds as a high school senior and he brings a lot to the table.
In just 6 games this season (he missed time throughout the year with an ankle injury), Williams finished with 1,001 yards and 12 TDs on 121 carries (8.3 ypc). On tape, you can see why he earned 18 offers.
Williams brings tremendous balance as a runner and a diverse skill set. He has the size to run through tackles while also having enough speed to run away from most defenders. He won’t be confused for freshman sensation Tyler Goodson, but he will remind Hawkeye fans of fellow RB Mekhi Sargent.
Starting at the 0:55 mark in his video, you see that diversity on full display. In one play, Williams throws the ball roughly 40 yards in the air for a TD in the back of the endzone. The very next highlight, he takes a handoff and runs right over a tackler in the hole. Two plays later, he’s split out wide and catches a quick slant. This truly is an all purpose back with the skill set Iowa can use all over the field.
As we saw this season, the Iowa staff has confidence in their young players. With the good frame for Williams, his willingness to be a blocker and his diversity in both the running and passing game, we could see him on the field as soon as next season.
Welcome aboard, officially, Leshon Williams!