True freshman QB has ‘it factor’

TUCSON, Ariz., -- Logan Wilson isn't one to say things he doesn't mean.

In fact, he's a man of few words as it is.

But when the subject of newly crowned starting quarterback Levi Williams came up, Wyoming's three-time team captain said there's something different about the true freshman. He even compared his presence in the locker room and huddle to a team favorite.

"I think he's got a lot of the same leadership qualities as Sean (Chambers) does," Wilson said of the 6-foot, 5-inch 208-pound signal caller from Canyon Lake, Texas. "He kind of has that 'it factor.' You can't really coach that. You know for a quarterback like that, especially as a freshman -- and we've been lucky to have two like that -- It's very easy for guys on offense, i think, to get behind and play hard for.

"Quarterback is a position with obviously a big leadership role, so when you have a freshman step in like that it's very important and key for our offense."

Williams played on a rotating basis with former starer Tyler Vander Waal, during the final two games of the regular season. He completed just 8-of-13 passes for 109 yards and an interception. Williams showed as a runner he can be elusive and powerful, rushing for 128 yards on 28 carries.

He also scored his first collegiate touchdown in a 17-7 Border War victory over Colorado State.

Vander Waal, who entered the transfer portal last week, will serve as Williams' back-up in the Arizona Bowl Tuesday afternoon against Georgia State.

Wilson wasn't the only teammate singing Williams' praises. A guy who catches passes from him said he likes the calmness, progression and maturity of the youngster.

"He's just different," senior wide receiver Austin Conway said. "He's practicing really well and emerging as a leader, which is what we really need as a football team."

One aspect of Williams' approach really sticks out to Conway.

"The coolest thing is he's asking the older guys for guidance," he said. "It just shows how mature he is and that he's always looking to get better."

Kickoff against the Panthers is scheduled for 2:30 p.m. MST.