At Sandusky High School, Williams rushed for 3,155 yards in three years and made two All- America teams. He was also UPI Back of the Year in Ohio. He was considered to have an explosive start and exceptionally quick feet. Coach Bowden considered these his finest assets. As a sophomore, he rushed for 589 yards on 88 carries for a 6.7 average. He also gained 208 yards and earned most valuable offensive player at the Peach Bowl while breaking WVU's single game rushing mark.