Oregon State Football: Most Valuable Player Countdown - #29 Dwayne Williams

The junior cornerback is ready to take the next step

By Marcus Russell@Marcus_Russell2 Jul 28, 2017, 12:30pm PDT

#29 Dwayne Williams - Cornerback

The Beavers are looking to replace Devin Chappell and Treston Decoud. And while it is going to be practically impossible to replace their leadership and skill, Dwayne Williams is a prime candidate to take on more responsibility and try to match their production. At 5'9" and 185 lbs, Williams uses his speed and athleticism to make up for his lack of size. He’s battled injuries his first two seasons of playing time, but has shown flashes of brilliance and what he’s capable of.

Xavier Crawford has essentially locked up the No. 1 corner spot, but their is a fierce competition opposite of him. Dwayne Williams and Jay Irvine will both see crucial snaps and another talent to remember in this mix is Christian Wallace, a red-shirt freshman and former four-star recruit, who missed last season due to off-the-field issues.

Dwayne Williams was primarily used in nickel defense situations as the third corner last season, but with the way college football teams like to spread it out he saw a lot of playing time. In just five games as a sophomore (injury shortened season) he recorded 20 tackles and a sack. Expect Williams to take on a bigger role in 2017 as the Beavers face talented quarterbacks like Jake Browning, Sam Darnold, Luke Falk and others. The Oregon State secondary will need to get on the same page quickly if they want to have a successful season.