The Wolverine: Covering University of Michigan Football and Sports
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This season, something was dif- ferent — the body was just the be- ginning. Williams had a reception against Utah in the opener, and then had a career-long 22-yard grab against Oregon State in week two. He had another catch in week three, and then against Northwestern in week six, he led the team in recep- tions (four) and receiving yards (48). He already has 10 catches for 120 yards in 10 games this season, and eight of those snared passes have moved the chains. "You certainly saw potential right away, and he got better as [camp] went on," Jay Harbaugh said. "At some point during the season, it just kind of clicked for him and he started mentally operating at a faster tempo. "He has good hands, but that was really never a question. His ability as a route runner has improved quite a bit. Him getting better in that phase gives you more confidence that he'll get open and get separation." Each reception brings greater con- viction and self-assurance for Wil- liams, who believes he's adding to his repertoire weekly. "It was kind of foreign … a pass coming to me," he said. "It never usually happened, but now I am starting to catch it, and it feels fa- miliar. I'm able to turn and get more yards now. "A couple of years ago, if you threw a low ball to me, I wouldn't have been able to handle that. But now, I feel where defenses are, and I am able to feel empty pockets and put myself there." LIVING THE HIGH LIFE The season is dwindling, and op- portunities to contribute are fewer