Hokies’ redshirt freshman Ryan Williams to start at tailback against Alabama

Beamer tabs Williams as Hokies’ top tailback

BLACKSBURG, Va. — Virginia Tech redshirt freshman Ryan Williams will start at tailback when the No. 7 Hokies play No. 5 Alabama.

Coach Frank Beamer announced the decision on Friday.

Williams’ elevation to the top spot came after he reported to preseason camp overweight and was dropped to third on the depth chart behind Josh Oglesby and freshman David Wilson.

Earlier in the week Beamer had said he would not name his starter publicly and that the three tailbacks would play against the Crimson Tide on Saturday night.

The school also announced that fullback Kenny Jefferson was suspended Aug. 16 for violating team policy and will not play in Saturday night’s game at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta.