Penn State Countdown: 76
Derrick Williams returns a kickoff for a 94 yard touchdown leaving Illini defenders behind him
As one of the most heralded recruits to ever matriculate at Penn State, it was almost impossible to live up to the hype that preceded Derrick Williams. His mere presence forced defensive coordinators to readjust their packages and account for the speedy wide out. Although he was a consistent performer on the field, it was tough for Williams to excel when there were two other equally capable receivers lined up alongside him. And as fans began to question whether he is really as spectacular as his #1 ranking coming out of high school, Derrick Williams answered right back.
Against the #22 Fighting Illini in 2008, Derrick Williams exploded for 241 all-purpose yards. Under the lights, in prime time and before a full stadium White Out, Williams accomplished the rare touchdown trifecta; having rushed for a TD, received a TD and returned a kickoff for a TD. It was one of the greatest single-player performances in Penn State’s rich history.
It was simply the breakout performance Nittany Lion fans had been eagerly waiting for.
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- Penn State moves to 3-0, Iowa looms
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