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SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. – Former Wyomissing star J’ven Williams remains optimistic and patient as he continues trying to crack the starting lineup in Penn State’s offensive line.
“This season has been really good for me,” Williams said at the Fiesta Bowl Media Day. “It’s been a learning opportunity. There’s been a whole bunch of learning.”
The 6-5, 310-pound Williams was the highest-rated prospect in the Nittany Lions’ 2023 recruiting class. He learned last year from starting tackles Olu Fashanu and Caedan Wallace, who are both in the NFL.
Since spring practice this year, he’s received repetitions at both tackle and both guard positions. Offensive line coach Phil Trautwein called that versatility huge for Williams.
“He has to understand he has to keep attacking every single day,” Trautwein said. “He understands everybody’s journey is different. Drew Shelton started as a freshman (at left tackle). Olu didn’t start until his third year when he dominated and could have left (for the NFL).
“I’m happy that happened here so J’ven could see. I’m trying to make sure he’s focused on being better at practice every single day.”
Williams has played in every game this season for Penn State (12-2), which takes on Boise State (12-1) in a College Football Playoff quarterfinal at the Fiesta Bowl Tuesday night at 7:30 (TV-ESPN).
“I’ve started on special teams this year and I think I’ve done a really good job protecting the kicker,” he said. “This year I’ve been able to play a little bit at guard and a little bit at tackle. I feel like I’m a little more versatile and I’m able to plug in at more spots.
“(But) it’s all about getting more snaps on offense.”
The Lions might return four starters on the offensive line next season because right guard Sal Wormley is the only one whose…
Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/wyomissing-grad-j-ven-williams-044600755.html
Author : Reading Eagle, Pa.
Publish date : 2024-12-31 04:46:00
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