An off-field incident during the bye this past weekend will cost Michigan a part-time starter for a rivalry game this coming weekend.
According to WKEF-TV in Dayton, A.J. Williams was arrested very early Sunday morning on multiple charges following a traffic stop in Oxford, Ohio. The tight end was pulled over police observed him running through a stop sign; the 19-year-old player was ticketed for not only that minor traffic offense, but for operating a vehicle under the influence and underage drinking.
The Toledo Blade reported that Williams’ BAC was a .122, well above the legal limit for drivers who are of drinking age.
While not addressing the arrest specifically, UM head coach Brady Hoke announced that Williams has been suspended for the Michigan State game this Saturday for violating unspecified team rules.
“t’s certainly disappointing when one of your kids makes a very poor decision,” Hoke said in a statement. “A.J. realizes he has let a lot of people down, including himself. As families do, we will help A.J. as he learns a valuable lesson from this.”
Despite starting four of the six games in which he’s played this season, Williams has yet to record a reception. Williams’ primary role has been that of a blocking tight end.