Michigan Football: Wolverines’ Mid-Season Standouts

Oct 17, 2015; Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Michigan Wolverines tight end A.J. Williams (84) rushes in the first half against the Michigan State Spartans at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

It was all Jake Butt this and Jake Butt that before this season, but a surprising amount of production from the tight end position has come from A.J. Williams, who before this season had five career receptions for 35 yards.

Now all the sudden he’s a legitimate weapon in Michigan’s offense.

Williams surpassed his career totals on Oct. 10 against Northwestern, when he hauled in four of his six receptions (to that point) for a team-high 48 yards.

He added two more receptions for 20 yards against Michigan State.

Until this season Williams had always been thought of as a liability because of his poor blocking, but through seven games he’s averaging 14.1 yards per game. (His blocking, though not terrible, is still subject to criticism.)

Williams might be Michigan’s most improved player on the offensive side of the ball, and he’s helping take some of the load off Butt at the position.

The numbers aren’t great, but he’s been a welcomed bloomer.

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