Williams has big day vs. Loudoun Valley

By Hugh Rist For the News & Messenger
Published: September 12, 2008

As usual, Woodbridge’s De’Antwan “Rocket” Williams didn’t take long to make an impression, and ended up putting on an out-of-this-world performance.
Williams juked and dodged his way to a 64-yard scoring run on the Vikings’ second play from scrimmage, scoring his first of five touchdowns as Woodbridge crushed Loudoun Valley 48-0 Friday night.
Williams, whose future is likely to be as bright as his present, scored four touchdowns and racked up 149 yards on 12 carries in the first half.  He scored on runs of 64, 9, 19, and 6 yards in the half and added an 11-yard scoring run in the third quarter before leaving the game.
Overall, he carried 21 times for 177 yards.
His performance could have been even more brilliant had he not had two scoring runs called back due to holding penalties.
Williams sounded disappointed by the nullified touchdowns, while flashing a brilliant smile when describing the performance of the Vikings’ offensive line.
“It’s the same thing the past few games, penalties calling them back,” Williams said. “Teams are gunning for us because we are the team to beat. But the (offensive line) did a great job and it was fun. Whenever I get the ball, I am looking to score.”
Woodbridge (3-0) has yielded just six points all season, and limited Loudoun Valley to 41 yards of offense, while notching three interceptions and two sacks.
However, the Vikings were flagged 16 times for 145 yards, helping to prevent a running clock until the fourth quarter.
Woodbridge coach Keith King said the coaching staff was surprised Williams had so few touches in the first half.
“We knew he had 149 yards and then we asked our stat guy how many carries he had and when we realized how few, we knew we had to give him more touches. He is a big-time D-1 prospect so he needs to learn to see his blocks,” King said. “We played a 40 (defense) last week and a 50 (defense) this week, so he has to have touches to make the adjustments.”
Woodbridge’s passing game was nearly as effective as its explosive running attack with quarterback Frank Buckley completing 10 of 16 passes for 153 yards, including a 17-yard scoring strike to Kevin Tyrra.
The Vikings were also able to give backup quarterback Darius Smith a few plays and the junior carried four times for 50 yards. King said the Vikings’ offensive efficiency enabled them to gain valuable experience for later in the season.
“We had quite a few dropped balls, but overall I thought Frank threw the ball well. Last year our quarterback (Jake Myer) got hurt early and Frank was thrown in there.
Tonight we were able to get Darius in there so there will be no panic (later in the year). This will be better for us down the road.”