Meet the Opposition: D.J. Williams

While the Buckeyes prepare for their January 4th game versus Arkansas in the Sugar Bowl, we are previewing a few of the key players for the Razorbacks. 

So far, we have looked at running back Knile Davis and defensive end Jake Bequette, and now move ahead to tight end D.J. Williams.

Williams, a senior from Little Rock, Arkansas, is not only one of the best tight ends in the SEC, but in the entire nation. 

He enters the Sugar Bowl with 49 catches, 589 yards and four touchdowns in 2010, and has caught at least three passes in every game but one (Mississippi State, in which he caught two). 

For his career, he has 147 catches and was recently presented the Mackey Award, given annually to the top tight end in the nation.

At 6'2, 251, D.J. isn't big by modern standards, but he is an excellent run blocker who is plenty physical and possesses deceptive speed in getting down the field as a receiver; he is also one of the most popular palyers on the Arkansas team and provides leadership on and off the field.

Ohio State has struggled in recent years when pitted against a tight end with good receiving skills so, this will no doubt provide a challenge. One hopes that if the Buckeyes try and cover him with a linebacker that they choose the speedy Brian Rolle. 

Regardless. it will be a challenge and how well they get the job done may hold one of the keys to whether or not OSU is victorious.