'Big Expectations' Lie Ahead for EJ Williams

Written by: Nate Comp (@NathanComp1)

After the news of Cam Camper’s season coming to an end, it looks like the Hoosiers will be finishing this year without their full arsenal of receivers. But as one door closes, another opens, and in comes Clemson transfer EJ Williams.

“The timing is huge, getting [EJ Williams] back, because Cam really hasn’t played a lot lately,” said Coach Allen to the media on Monday. “Really excited for him. Made some big plays for us. He’s a big enough guy to break tackles and can stretch the field.”

In Williams’ freshman season with the Tigers, he hauled in 24 passes for 306 yards as Clemson made it to the College Football Playoff. A four-star, Top-100 recruit by 247Sports, he seemed poised to be the next star receiver that rolled through that program and into the NFL. But his next two seasons were rough as he battled injuries and dropping passes. His role diminished, so he sought a fresh start with the Hoosiers.

He caught two passes in the first two games, but the injury bug struck again earlier this season. He was sidelined for over a month before making his return against Penn State, where he once again caught just one pass.

But the flash was back Saturday against Wisconsin.

“EJ’s length and speed, he’s our fastest and longest receiver combination that we have,” continued Allen. “He’s a guy we had high hopes for when we brought him here, and unfortunately the injury really set him back. But he stayed positive, stayed the course, kept training, kept working, was doing all the things he needed to do to get back, and was ready to go when he did.”

His chemistry continues to grow with Brendan Sorsby. On Saturday they connected four times for 48 yards. He showed his route running ability on a critical 3rd and 7 late in the first half in which he caught a slant and was able to stop on a dime and break the tackles of multiple defenders before picking up a first down. He is becoming one of Sorsby’s favorite third down targets.

“Now he's played a couple games, and each week he just gets more and more confident with Brendan and our system that we're doing here.” Allen said.

With three must-win games remaining, Indiana will continue to lean on Williams to produce.

“Going to need him to continue to elevate and continue to be a guy on the rise, which we’re seeing right now from him, so I’m really proud of him.  Big expectations for EJ in these next few weeks.” Allen said.

The Hoosiers take on the Fighting Illini on Saturday.