Ryan Williams Named Virginia Tech Starting Running Back

Yesterday, Virginia Tech running back coach Billy Hite announced red shirt freshman Ryan Williams will start at tailback for the Hokies against Alabama.

It's been a three-way battle between Williams, sophomore Josh Olgesby, and true freshman David Wilson since returning starter Darren Evans went down with an ACL injury just three weeks ago.

Williams is a dynamic, "make-you-miss" style back, completely different than Evans. Williams was a four-star recruit, according to Rivals.com, and rated the No. 3 overall tailback in the country two years ago.

Many thought Williams would complement Evans in the backfield last year, but he struggled to learn the playbook and blocking schemes, keeping him off the field.

He came back to fall camp a little out of shape, having spent the summer at home instead of in Blacksburg working out. Hite has been quoted as saying that Williams will not be permitted to go home over the summer again.

A true freshman, Wilson came into camp in great shape, and was praised as a quick learner and outstanding athlete. He was also a four-star back, and ranked as the No. 4 overall running back in the country in this year's freshman class.

Wilson was named the MVP for the USA Team at the Junior World Championships over the summer.

Olgesby is the only back with college game experience. He's touted as a hard worker and a hard runner. He does, however, lack the supreme athletic ability that both Williams and Wilson possess.

Considering the early praise for Wilson, the experience of Olgesby, and the criticisms of Williams at the beginning of fall camp, I read Williams being named the starter as a true testament to his overall skill and ability.

Despite the injury to Evans, Tech's backfield appears deep, but unproven.

According to HokieSports.com, Hite says all three backs will play, "early and often."