WATCH: USC quarterback Caleb Williams honored at halftime of UCLA-USC basketball game
USC quarterback Caleb Williams cemented his name among some of the greatest players in college football history during the 2022-2023 season. He led the Trojans to a 11-3 overall record this year and he brought home the most coveted individual honor in the sport, the Heisman Trophy.
It was an impressive first season in Los Angeles for Williams. After starting his career at Oklahoma, Williams followed coach Lincoln Riley to USC. While the change could have brought issues for Williams, it clearly did not impact his career.
On Thursday night, the Trojans honored the USC superstar at halftime of the UCLA-USC basketball game. Check out the video below.
Williams placed his name among the all-time greats, throwing for 4,537 passing yards, while tossing in 42 touchdown passes and just five interceptions. As a runner, he rushed for 382 yards and 10 touchdowns on the ground.
Caleb Williams discusses his feelings on winning the Heisman
“They shared that when you’re in [New York City for the ceremony], it’s usually a once in a lifetime experience, especially when you win,” Williams said. “And also to keep smiling, be happy that you’re here. It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity a player to go win a Heisman, so to be in that moment, no matter how much sleep I had, I kept a smile on my face, I was happy to be there and I’m very grateful.”
In the end, Williams beat out fellow quarterbacks CJ Stroud (Ohio State), Max Duggan (TCU) and Stetson Bennett (Georgia) for the trophy. USC might have missed out on the College Football Playoff this year, but it’ll always be a season that USC fans, and Williams, will never forget.
Coming out of Gonzaga High School (Washington, DC), Williams was one of the most highly rated players in America. He was ranked as a five-star prospect and the No. 2 quarterback prospect in the 2021 cycle, according to the On3 Consensus Rankings. The gifted quarterback was also named the Elite 11 MVP in 2020–the camp that hosts the nation’s elite quarterback prospects.
On3’s Barkley Truax also contributed to this article.