Clemson was looking for a 180-degree pivot from its offensive performance last week in the loss to Notre Dame, and the Tigers found it against Louisville. A key factor in the Clemson passing game was the performance of freshman receiver Antonio Williams.
Williams’ impressive performance featured a 4-yard touchdown reception accompanied by nine other catches for 79 yards.
The true freshman reflected on the response to adversity and how the approach to practice this past week set the tone for the game against the Cardinals.
“I think we came back and just responded better,” he said. “We had a great week of practice, probably our best week of practice, and it showed in the game.”
“I think we just had a fire inside of us,” Williams added. “From last week, the way we lost, it wasn’t even a close game. Nobody wants to lose like that.” 
Still, even after recording career-high marks in single-game receptions and receiving yards, Williams wasn’t entirely content. 
“The screens, DJ was throwing it,” he said. “10 catches, 83 yards, got to do better, especially with the ten catches.”
The pass catcher had his third career touchdown in the win over Louisville, a play in which Williams had plenty of confidence as it transpired. 
“I saw press man coverage, and that’s a no-no,” he said. “I just ran a slant and beat him inside.”
It has become clear that quarterback DJ Uiagalelei and Williams are developing more chemistry as the season unfolds. 
A South Carolina native, Williams has a team-high 43 receptions for 473 yards through the Tigers’ first 10 games. 
With Williams really finding his rhythm at receiver, it seems like he has become a consistent target for the signal caller.
“DJ is just a dog, and I just respect him so much for what he went through and how he responded. I just try to make it easier for him to get open.”