Sophomore running back Gavin Williams figures to be a key cog offensively for Iowa. The Hawkeyes need him to step up into a starring role following the departure of last season’s leading rusher Tyler Goodson.
Goodson finished the 2021 season with 1,151 rushing yards and six rushing touchdowns on 256 carries. Now, it’s Williams’ turn to build upon what he delivered in the Hawkeyes’ 20-17 loss against Kentucky in the Vrbo Citrus Bowl.
In his first career start, Williams carried 16 times for 98 yards. The Altoona, Iowa, product became the first Hawkeye to make his first career start in a bowl game since Jordan Canzeri did so against Oklahoma at the 2011 Insight Bowl.
The 6-foot, 211 pound running back finished the 2021 season as Iowa’s second-leading rusher with 305 rushing yards on 65 totes. There’s sure to be plenty of highlights ahead for Williams in 2022, but let’s take a look back at his career thus far through these terrific photos.