The News-Gazette · Jul 31, 2018
Top 50 most important Illini: No. 4, Bennett Williams
» moreVitals: 6-0, 205, S
Hometown: Campbell, Calif.
High School: St. Francis
Looking back at 2017: Lovie Smith played 22 true freshman last fall — more than any other FBS program in the country. It's arguable that Williams was the best of that bunch. He finished his first season with the Illini with 64 tackles, three interceptions, two pass breakups, one quarterback hurry and one forced fumble. Lining up at strong safety, Williams showed an ability to play up against the run, while his team-high interception total flashed his ability deeper in the defensive backfield. That type of production earned him ESPN.com Freshman All-American and BTN.com All-Freshman Team honors.