Williams takes conference rushing lead with performance against Rebels

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Behind a career-high 180-yard performance on the ground and his first career touchdown reception during Arkansas’ win over No. 12 Ole Miss, sophomore running back Rawleigh Williams III has been named the SEC Offensive Player of the Week, announced by the conference office Monday morning.

The SEC weekly award is the first of Williams’ young career and he joins quarterback Austin Allen as SEC Offensive Players of the Week this season. Arkansas is the only program with multiple players that have won SEC Offensive Player of the Week this season.

Williams’ 180 rushing yards were the most by a Razorback in an SEC game since Knile Davis ran for 187 yards at Mississippi State in November of 2010. Highlighted by three runs of 20 or more yards, including a 53-yarder, Williams wasn’t stopped for a loss on any of his 27 carries. Williams, who hit the 100-yard mark in the first half, produced six first downs on the ground and one more through the air. The 100-yard rushing game was Williams’ SEC-leading fourth of the year and the fifth of his career.

With his big day, Williams took over the SEC rushing lead with 785 yards, a mark that ranks eighth nationally. Williams is one of three Power 5 Conference players with 750-plus rushing yards and five touchdowns on the ground. He also leads the SEC in first downs (35) and 10-yard runs (22).

Not only are Allen and Williams the only duo from the same school to win SEC Offensive PIayer of the Week this season, but they are also the only QB-RB duo in the nation to lead a conference in both passing yards and rushing yards.

2016 SEC Weekly Awards

Offensive Player of the Week
Austin Allen, QB (Sept. 12)
Rawleigh Williams III, RB (Oct. 17)

Offensive Lineman of the Week
Dan Skipper, LT (Sept. 12)
Frank Ragnow, RG (Sept. 19)

Defensive Lineman of the Week
Deatrich Wise Jr., DE (Sept. 6)

Special Teams Player of the Week
Dan Skipper, OL (Oct. 3)