Leonard Williams is projected as the #1 pick in the 2015 NFL Draft by the majority of the scouting services out there, and even those that don't have him going #1 rate him among the nation's best draft-eligible players.
Williams likely played his last college game when USC took on Nebraska in Saturday's Holiday Bowl, and despite some early trouble, Williams will likely remember this as one of his finest showings.
Williams had a sack wiped out in the first quarter after a taunting penalty - he decided to celebrate with a dance in front of the Nebraska sideline - but other than that, his impact was consistent and forceful.
With nine total tackles and a sack, Williams made his presence felt throughout, and he routinely bullied his way through his marker to wreak havoc behind the line of scrimmage.
The Nebraska offensive line is among the nation's best, and if Williams can give them headaches...well, the signs are positive that he can repeat that kind of impact at the next level.
Williams ended his 2014 season with 80 tackles, seven of them sacks. His statement on USC's official website reflects on his decision to leave for the NFL:
"This was a very hard decision for me. I love USC, Coach Sark and the coaching staff, my teammates and the fans, and I love the game of college football. It's hard to leave all of that. I know life is never the same once you leave college.
"But I feel like it's the right time for me to go. I feel like I'm ready. I'm looking forward to the new challenge that the NFL presents.”
"I had a great experience at USC and enjoyed all three of my years here. I was coached by outstanding coaches and I played with great teammates. I'm thankful to all of them, as well as to the support I got from the fans. I'm proud and happy to have been a part of the Trojan Family. I'll always be a Trojan. Now, I get to be part of the great tradition of USC alums in the NFL. I'm excited to see what's coming next for me."
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