There was a ridiculous conversation that ensued on social media about Caleb Williams and his desire to play for Southern Cal, with the Trojans all but eliminated from the College Football Playoff. The likely No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, Williams put any of those absurd discussions to rest on Saturday.
Following a 52-42 loss to Washington in Week 10, the Trojans are now officially out of contention for the College Football Playoff but remain on the outskirts of the Pac-12 title race.
Williams and his burning desire to win were on full display following his post-game exchange with Washington players. The reigning Heisman Trophy winner found his family at the edge of the seating bowl at the Coliseum. Clearly overcome with emotions, he was embraced by his mother, as she hid both of their faces with a sheet of paper.
“[He] played well. Led his team. Did all he could. He just came up a bit short. It’s part of the game,” said Kirk Herbstreit, as ESPN’s cameras keyed in on the emotional Williams.
Caleb Williams is embraced by his family after USC's 52-42 loss to Washington on Saturday night.
Kirk Herbstreit on Williams: "[He] played well. Led his team. Did all he could. He just came up a bit short. It's part of the game." pic.twitter.com/K3dc9gtBhP
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) November 5, 2023
Those in the football world were quick to react to Williams’ emotional moment with his family.
There are people on this here internet criticizing this guy for displaying emotion — people who would themselves never have the confidence to step between those white lines. 🤦🏾♂️ https://t.co/zod6L1SVDv
— Stephen Holder (@HolderStephen) November 5, 2023
You know that’s mom. Only one person on the planet can cause a dude to break down like that. Doesn’t matter where you are. https://t.co/j8YPc1aota
— Matthew Tynan (@Matthew_Tynan) November 5, 2023
College football is big business. Caleb Williams has made a lot of money and will make even more soon.
All of that said, I thought it sucked out loud how long the broadcast lingered on him in this moment. I dunno if I’m in the minority or not, but it felt gross. https://t.co/n6cOHajLKe
— David Helman (@davidhelman_) November 5, 2023
This kid is hurt man. Literally playing other worldly and gets no help. Feel awful for him https://t.co/VDjx6nE3BB
— tone bone 🏁🐍 (@NoCutz) November 5, 2023
In the college gymnastics championship they invite the best athletes from schools that didn’t qualify for the finals to participate for an individual championship.
Caleb Williams and Jayden Daniels should get to play for Georgia and Michigan in the CFP because they deserve it. https://t.co/AkfHuBfe3L
— Evan Saacks (@evansaacks) November 5, 2023
Williams completed 27-of-35 attempts (77 percent) for 312 yards with three passing touchdowns in the loss. If USC has any hopes of winning the Pac-12, it’ll need more from its defense against Oregon in Week 11.
