Packers: Five standout performances from Week 7 win vs. Texans

2. Jamaal Williams

Stat line: 19 carries, 77 yards, 1 TD, 4 catches, 37 yards (114 all-purpose yds)

In last week’s stinker, Jamaal Williams was one of the bright spots. He ran hard, did the dirty work, and was completely unselfish.

When Aaron Jones popped up on the injury report late in the week, there wasn’t need to be concerned. The injury was thought to be minor and Jones might be able to play through it.

But even more important, the team had Williams there to back him up.

After an offseason of rededication to his body, Williams came back quicker, stronger and running with a purpose. With free agency lurking, Williams wants to earn himself top dollar no matter where it’s at. And that has benefited the Packers. Williams has looked great in a limited role as second option after Jones. But how would he look back in a lead role?

We got that answer Sunday and the answer was good, really good in fact.

Williams ran with extra ferocity and was usually moving the pile forward when going down. He also caught the ball well out of the backfield and did all he could to ensure Jones was barely missed.

Williams lacks the break-away threat Jones has but he does hit the hole hard, is comfortable running routes and is probably the better blocker in blitz pick up.

Williams is also as tough as they come. He demonstrated as much in the first quarter when he took a hard hit to the head, got his helmet ripped off and got up dancing.

Jones’ injury isn’t expected to keep him out long, but Williams has to give the Packers coaching staff confidence they’ll be fine if the worst should occur.