By Earl Heath
Contributing Sports Writer
Just a few blocks from Broadway in the Big Apple Caleb Williams became the eighth Heisman Trophy winner from USC and the first since 2005 (Reggie Bush). The room was filled with some of college football greats as he accepted one of the most elite awards in college sports.
“To now be a part of this historic fraternity is truly an honor and something I will cherish for the rest of my life,” Williams said during his acceptance speech at the 88th ceremony “While this may be an individual award, I certainly understand that nothing — and absolutely nothing — in this sport, nor life, is done alone.”
Williams led the FBS in passing touchdowns (37) and ranks fourth in passing yards (4,075). He and Lincoln Riley both left Oklahoma following the 2021 season and settled at USC, helping to quickly turn the program around.
In just one season he and his teammates turn a 4-8 team into an (11-2, 8-1 PAC-12) and one game away from the CFP.
Williams took the stage dressed “sharper than a Gillette Blue Bade” wearing a Gucci grey suit. His speech had humbling theme as he shared some of the people that help get him there on this night.
He thanked coach Lincoln Riley whom he followed from
Oklahoma after his freshman season and his wife Caitlan.
“Thank you for allowing me to be part of your family. And not only allowing him to coach me way more than he should be at home.”
He thanked “Mike Bohn (USC Athletic Director) and his wife Kim for being here today. I appreciate you always for making us the best student athletes possible. My teammates and I appreciate all you have done for USC.”
The Washington D.C. native thanked his family and father (Carl).
“Thank you for always being my mom (Dayna) first. The women behind the scene who always has a smile on her face. You’re an inspiration to me in many ways. To the old man over there my dad (Carl), he always walks to the beat of his own drum. Thank you for showing mw the way. You instilled a work ethic in me at a young age that I can’t thank you enough for.”
He gave praise to his high school Gonzaga college High in DC “Thank you my brotherhood he stated,” he stated. And you Coach Randy Thrivers, you had the courage to start a ninth grader in one of the toughest high school conference in the Country. The Gonzaga experience helped both on and off the field to prepare me in more ways than you could imagine.”
Williams recognized the other finalist CJ (Stroud),Stets (Stetson Bennet) and Max(Duggan) “You guys are unbelievable competitors. And I am so happy to be up here with you all.”
Now it back to work on to the Cotton Bowl to face Tulane.
The Trojans had three previous winners in attendance Matt Lienart, Carson Palmer and Mike Garrett who was the first to win the award at the school.
