Kalen DeBoer describes what stands out about Caleb Williams
When it comes to a prospect like Caleb Williams, it’s almost easier to describe what doesn’t stand out. Still, with Washington set to face the reigning Heisman next, Kalen DeBoer noted one overarching aspect of his game that the Huskies are going to have to cut off.
DeBoer spoke about Williams’ playmaking ability during his press conference on Monday. To him, USC’s QB1 is top-notch considering he can, and will, do everything when it comes to passing the football considering his ability to extend plays and make any pass in the book.
“I mean an elite playmaker, can make all the throws,” DeBoer explained. “Eyes are downfield, buys time, will not be afraid to make any throw – on the run, deep down the field.”
Through nine games, Williams has thrown for over 2,600 yards, 25 touchdowns, and four interceptions. What’s even more impressive is he’s doing it on career-best efficiency with a completion rate of 68.2%. For all the throws and plays he comes up with on the fly, that kind of percentage and stats is why he’s as highly regarded as he is.
That’s why, in the end, DeBoer doesn’t want to see his defense get discouraged this weekend. There will be moments where Williams will make a highlight or two against Washington. Even so, DeBoer wants the Huskies to remain sound, pressure him and close as many of his windows as they can, and be ready to move on to the next snap.
“We’ve got to do a really good job of just staying on the receivers and any skill player, especially when he has escaped the pocket,” said DeBoer. “That will definitely happen. You’ve got to make the play, get him down, line up, and go play again.”
“That’s what your mindset has to be,” DeBoer said. “He’s going to make some plays. You’re not the reigning Heisman quarterback without that ability. The playmaking that he has is exceptional.”
USC vs. Washington odds: Early point spread released on Trojans, Huskies
Week 10 o will feature another massive showdown between two heavyweights in the Pac-12 conference. The top team in the conference thus far this season, the Washington Huskies, will travel south to Los Angeles and take on the USC Trojans.
According to FanDuel Sportsbook, Washington opens as a 4.5-point favorite over USC. The over/under is at 71.5 points.
Both Washington and USC were able to pick up hard-fought road victories in week 9. The Huskies were able to take down upset-minded Stanford by a score of 42-33. USC also narrowly escaped going on a three-game losing streak as they barely slipped past California in a 50-49 win.
ESPN sees this matchup of Pac-12 juggernauts as a proverbial coin flip. They did give an ever-so-slight edge to the home team, though. Currently, ESPN gives USC a 50.1% chance of victory against Washington.
Fans of either program can catch this matchup of high-flying offenses on November 4 at 7:30 p.m. ET. ABC will be broadcasting this matchup.