:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/59972919/usa_today_10390612.0.jpg)
A lot of questions that the Houston Cougars had entering this offseason seem to have potential solutions. Major Applewhite added yet another transfer to his team that will contribute to the 2018 season. Terence Williams, a former Baylor running back, will finish is career in Houston.
College football source confirms former Baylor RB Terence Williams is transferring to @UHCougarFB and is immediately eligible to play.
— Mark Berman (@MarkBermanFox26) June 5, 2018
Williams rushed for 1,859 yards and 15 touchdowns with the Bears, and will be a valuable addition to a position that needs some proven talent. He also reconnects with offensive coordinator Kendal Briles, who held the same position at Baylor in Williams’ first two seasons. Applewhite has added defensive end Isaiah Chambers, safety Deontay Anderson, receiver Raelon Singleton, and linebacker Darrion Owens, but Williams could be his most valuable.
So what does Williams bring to the team? First, he gives the Cougars a big back (6’2”, 222 pounds) who is extremely difficult to take down. His center of balance is tremendous and tacklers tend to bounce off of him. Williams also has good vision to find running lanes and open space. An explosive running game is something Houston has lacked for a couple years now, and he could change that all by himself.
Mulbah Car was the expected starter after Duke Catalon left the team, so adding a proven back like Williams gives this group some depth. Williams should be familiar with Briles’ schemes, so there won’t be much of a learning curve. I would be very surprised if Williams isn’t the starter, and Car continues in his role as the backup who gets a good amount of carries. The starting spot isn’t guaranteed, but Williams has the tools and experience to win the job.
Year 1 under Major Applewhite was a disappointment, but he has taken tremendous steps to ensure that his second season won’t be. Houston now has a ton of talent thanks to grad transfers, and Williams is just the latest name to be added to the roster. It all comes down to coaching on the field. Applewhite has proven he can get the talent to Houston, and now he has the pieces to make the 2018 season a special one.