Williams gained 1,350 yards at Clifton Forge High School, with a rushing average of 5.8 yards per carry. He was named All-State as a senior. Clifton Forge was undefeated for 2 years while Williams was there.

As a WVU freshman, he shared fullback duties with Pete Wood and a 5.8 rushing average. Williams was described as a true specimen of a linesman—thick through the chest, broad through the shoulders, compact vertically and possessing great strength. As a sophomore, he played behind All American guard Carl Crennel at middle guard. He was switched from defense to offensive guard his natural position following his freshman year. Before his senior year, Bowden touted him as one of the top blocking linemen in the country. His 4.9 second speed in the 40-yard dash and his 250 pounds, Bowden thought, made him a contender for national honors.