Kentucky RB CoShik Williams has gone from an unknown walk-on to a starting RB in his four years in Lexington. He had 118 carries for 486 yards in 2011 as a reserve, including two 100-yard games.
He goes into 2012 as the starter, but on a Kentucky offense that lacks star power, how will he perform?
Why he'll flourish: After splitting time with multiple RBs in 2011, Williams will be the top back in 2012. He is being pushed by freshman RBs Dyshawn Mobley and Justin Taylor, but Williams should get a majority of the touches. The Wildcats lost three O-linemen from last year, but NFL prospects C Matt Smith and G Larry Warford are still there to open up holes for Williams. The Wildcats lack explosive playmakers at WR, so they will give Williams plenty of carries and look for him out of the backfield.
Why he'll struggle: The lack of overall experience on offense could hurt him. With no true deep threat in the passing game, defenses can stack the box and make it difficult to run the ball. He also sustained a mild ankle injury in fall camp. If the losses start to pile up for the Wildcats, coach Joker Phillips might want to go with one of the younger backs to build for the future.
NFL outlook: He's a fringe NFL prospect at best. A strong senior season could get him a look, but his size (5-foot-9, 180), and lack of overall production will likely keep him out of the draft.
Projected 2012 stat line: 205 carries for 861 yards and six touchdowns
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