Virginia Tech to redshirt running back

By Nathan Warters
Media General News Service
Published: September 17, 2008

BLACKSBURG — Virginia Tech freshman running back Ryan Williams will redshirt this season, Hokies coach Frank Beamer said during his Tuesday media conference.

“He and coach (Billy) Hite talked (Monday), and I think he felt like that’s what’s best for him and we feel like that’s what’s best for him,” Beamer said. “He’s going to be a terrific player, I don’t think there’s any question about that, but I think right now, getting a little more time is probably the best thing for him.”

Williams was the No. 4 high school running back recruit in the nation last season according to ESPN.com.

He came to Tech with high expectations, but Beamer wants to make sure he’s completely ready before putting him on the field.

“When the ball is in his hands, there’s no question he could play right now, but when the ball is not in his hands, I don’t think he feels comfortable in doing some of the pass protections and doing some of those things,” Beamer said. “But my feeling about Ryan and our feelings about Ryan haven’t changed. I think he’s going to be a terrific player.”

Beamer said Williams, who said in the preseason that one of the reasons he came to Tech was for the opportunity to play right away, agreed with the decision to sit out this season.