In last week’s preseason game against Spoto, Mario Williams picked up right where he left off in 2017. The speedy sophomore scored three touchdowns — two by air, one by land — in the Raiders’ 42-7 win over the Spartans.
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How are you feeling about this new season?
Great. I feel like our team, we’ve got the potential to go deep in the playoffs and win.
You looked like you didn’t miss a beat last week. How were you feeling going into the game?
I felt confident and after the game, I was just excited. I felt like I did good.
You've gotten some attention around the Tampa Bay area for your play last football season and also for baseball. How has that helped your confidence?
It just kept me motivated and ready to play.
What are your personal goals for the season?
Raise my stats and show college coaches what I can do.
Where have you improved most since last season?
Actually, I moved from slot to outside, so I’ve been playing a lot of outside. I’ve been doing good out there.
In your opinion, what makes you a good player? Besides your speed, of course.
I can make people miss and get to the end zone.
You and Braxton Plunk look like you have a pretty solid connection on the field. How would you describe it?
Great. He’s a great example. He’s a great person. I feel like I can go to him anytime and he can come to me anytime. It’s just a brotherly connection.
How did you get started in football?
My family just always played baseball and football and I was like, “I want to play both.” It’s been like, since I was 4.
If you could play for any college team, what would it be?
Miami. I just like the way they’re set up and my cousin, Larry Hodges, he’s going there. He’s a tight end. They pass the ball a lot and they have a balanced offense, so I’d love to go there. I like LSU, that’s my favorite college, but if you look at their offense it’s not for me. So Miami, yeah.