He has always been a talented athlete, but at times, it takes a push for Alabama’s outside linebacker Tim Williams to get going. First-year linebackers coach Tosh Lupoi has provided the motivation this season. Phrases like “don’t cheat yourself” and “make this your best rep” are what the junior constantly hears in practice from Lupoi and it is starting to pay off.
Williams, 6-foot-4, 230 pounds, is in the midst of a four-game streak. The Louisiana (Baton Rouge) native has recorded a sack in each of the last four games, dating back to week four against Louisiana-Monroe. He has a quick first step and an array of pass rush moves to get to the quarterback. Eye discipline on the edge is a concept that Williams continues to work on.
Williams accounted for one of Alabama’s two sacks in its 38-10 win over Georgia, and returned with a sack of Texas A&M quarterback Kyle Allen last week. He is second behind defensive end Jonathan Allen (five) in the sacks department with 3.5. Williams has five tackles for loss.
Stephen M. Smith is a senior analyst and columnist for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @ESPN_Future.
