Williams named to CFPA Running Back Trophy Watch List

PROVO, Utah — BYU running back Jamaal Williams has been named to the 2014 College Football Performance Awards Running Back Trophy Watch List.

The junior is one of 40 running backs across the country to be added to the list. 

"Congratulations to Jamaal Williams on earning a spot on the 2014 CFPA Watch List," said CFPA Executive Director Brad Smith. "Williams produced a number of strong performances last season, notably against Nevada and Texas."

Williams tallied 1,233 yards on 217 carries last season, resulting in seven touchdowns. The 6-foot junior from Fontana, California, needs 1,447 yards to become BYU’s all-time rush leader.

Williams has also been named to the Maxwell Award watch list and received 2014 Phil Steele Preseason All-Independent First Team honors.

Previously, Dennis Pitta earned the 2009 CFPA Elite Tight End Trophy, while Kyle Van Noy earned the 2012 CFPA Linebacker Trophy and was the 2012 CFPA National Defensive Performer of the Year. Last week, BYU senior Alani Fua was named to the 2014 CFPA Linebacker Trophy Watch List.

Recipients are selected exclusively based upon objective scientific rankings of the extent to which individual players increase the overall effectiveness of their teams. The CFPA is in its seventh season of player and team performance recognition, broken down by offense, defense, and special teams.

The other 39 players named to the watch list can be found on CFPA's website.