10 Questions with Jesse Williams

Jesse Williams played 4 years with Bayside Ravens prior to taking his talents to Arizona Western College and now Alabama. Ahead of the BCS National Championship, we spoke to Jesse and asked him a few questions.

Q: How does it feel to reach the National Championship Game in your first season at Alabama?

A: It’s a great feeling not only to be able to represent my school but also my country, my family and of course the Ravens on such a large stage with the whole world watching. Should be a great game and lots of fun being able to be a part of it.

Q: Has it sunk it that you started out running around on a suburban paddock for the Ravens and now contribute to the #1 Defense in the Nation at Alabama?

A: It feels like it was just yesterday I was down at Judy Holt Park with everyone and then I blinked and here I m playing for the National Championship for one of the best schools in the country.

Q: What is your fondest memory of playing for the Ravens?

A: I think being able to meet so many people that were a part of the ravens that I consider family and being able not only to play football but have a fun and get the opportunities to excel the way I did.

Q: What has been the steepest learning curve at Alabama?

A: I think the playbook was the toughest, coming from Australia and not being brought up with such a complex playing and coaching style it was tough at the start.

Q: We have seen film of Strength Coach Scott Cochran putting you guys to work in the weight room. Is he that intense all the time?

A: He is like that 24/7, he plays a huge role in getting us ready physically and he also does great things pregame to help players get ready.

Q: Which individual player has been your toughest opponent to date?

A: I would have to say our offensive line and the duo of Trent Richardson and EddieLacey at practice is about the best practice you can get for the real thing. It has made me a better player going against those guys everyday.

Q: #54 for the Ravens, #54 for Queensland, #54 for Australia, #54 for the World Team, #54 at Arizona Western, now #54 at Alabama. How important has it been keeping your number throughout your career?

A: It’s been great, having the opportunity to play with my number majority of my career and hopefully if I continue playing football onward in the future I hope the #54 is ready for me at the next level.

Q: How does it feel to a role model for so many people, particularly young Australian players and Indigenous athletes?

A: It great to represent indigenous Australia on such a big stage and also promote the sport in Australia for many kids who might want to pursue this similar to how I did.

Q: What makes LSU such a big challenge for Alabama?

A: We play very similar football, so evenly matched and we both have very physical teams so it always makes for a good match up.

Q: Why will Alabama win the BCS National Championship Game?

A: I think the break between games will make the difference and how hard we worked to improve ourselves after our last game to get ready for this one. Roll Tide!