Imhotep's David Williams focused on winning state title

Imhotep Charter running back David Williams heads to the end zone on the last of his four touchdowns against Pen Argyl in a state AA quarterfinal. (LOU RABITO / Staff)

By Matt Breen, Inquirer Staff Writer

Posted: December 04, 2012

In order to demonstrate his relationship with his coach, Imhotep running back David Williams raised his right hand and crossed two fingers.

"We're like this," said Williams, referring to coach Albie Crosby.

Williams, the area's top running back, transferred in April to Imhotep from West Catholic, where Crosby had been the offensive coordinator before taking the Imhotep position.

Along with his relationship with Crosby, Imhotep is also a few blocks from Williams' North Philadelphia home.

"He just knows what type of player I am and what I feel comfortable in," Williams said.

On Saturday, Williams rushed for 190 yards and four touchdowns on 14 carries as Imhotep cruised past Pen Argyl in the PIAA Class AA quarterfinals. The Panthers (13-0) advanced to meet Wyomissing (14-0) on Saturday at 1 p.m. at Germantown.

Williams' longest rush against Pen Argyl was a 79-yard touchdown sprint, on which he broke through the line untouched before running down the right sideline.

"This is what we expected from him," said Crosby. "He's that type of player. He's a big-time recruit for us. The kid is amazing."

Last week, Williams and his mother met with coaches from Arizona State, Miami, Penn State and South Carolina. Crosby said Williams stayed focus despite the attention.

"His main goal is to win a state championship for Imhotep football," Crosby said.

Saturday's game also marked the first state playoff game in Imhotep's history. Together at West Catholic, Williams and Crosby participated in five state playoff games, including last year's AA final loss.

"I was pretty exposed to what states feel like," Williams said. "But I'm glad my teammates get to finally do it. And I think they did pretty good".

Contact Matt Breen at mbreen@phillynews.com or @matt_breen on Twitter.