The UTSA Football team is implementing a new pass-happy, up-tempo offense for the 2015 season. Although the quarterbacks and wide receivers will be featured heavily, junior running back Jarveon Williams will be vital to the success of the team.

Being the top returning rusher from a season ago — despite missing the final four games — means Williams will be carrying the ball along with added expectations heading into the 2015 season.

Though he is going into his third year on the team, Williams still remembers year one like it was yesterday. “I didn’t know what to expect,” said Williams. “I thought everybody was going to be bigger then me,” he admitted with a laugh. “I didn’t think I was going to play, but I wanted to.” Williams got his opportunity to play as a true freshman and has been a key contributor ever since.

In his hometown of Converse, Williams played defensive back for his first three years of high school before switching to the offensive side of the ball. During his senior season, he made the switch to running back and instantly excelled at it. He received second-team All-Area and first team All-District for both positions during his time in high school.

His defense to offense transition was seamless, much like his transition from high school to the collegiate level. Williams was a success at UTSA from his very first game where he nearly scored for the Roadrunners. “My adrenaline was pumping,” said Williams, reflecting on his first game as a Roadrunner. “I made a real big play and almost scored.”

In his early days, Williams recalls playing off of pure emotion and excitement. Now as an upperclassman, he has matured and improved as a runner. “With experience you get better,” said Williams. “So the more I’ve played the better I’ve gotten. I’ve learned how to (properly) run and not just run off of instincts; I actually learned the game in-depth.”

Going into the 2015 season, Williams’ junior year figures to be his best. “This year, my goal is to capitalize on all my runs and make the most of each opportunity I can,” said Williams.

Not only is he working to better himself as a player, the junior running back also takes part in the progression his younger teammates. Williams’ tenure and status on the team make him a great leader for this year’s freshman to. “I’m taking on the role of a leader,” said Williams. “I’m showing them the things that the guys that were here before me showed me.”

Williams’ steady advancement from his freshman year up to now can be seen not only on the field, but in his demeanor and attitude as well. When asked about his expectations for the team this year, Williams responded with no hesitation, saying: “(We will) win the conference and a bowl game.” That confidence and belief in himself, as well as his teammates, will be needed this year as Jarveon looks to lead his team to victory.