Statesman Journal: Receiver Williams quietly leading the charge

GARY HOROWITZ

EUGENE -- Jaison Williams is having a breakout season but don't expect Oregon's sophomore wide receiver to pat himself on the back.  Coming off a career-high 10-reception effort in Saturday's victory at Arizona State, Williams credited the offensive line and quarterback Dennis Dixon. "I'm just trying to play my part and contribute where I can," Williams said in typical low-key fashion.  Oregon was looking for a go-to wideout this season to replace Demetrius Williams, who is now playing for the Baltimore Ravens. The leading candidates appeared to be returning starters James Finley, who had 57 receptions last season, and Cameron Colvin.  Jaison Williams had modest success in 2005, with 15 catches for 245 yards, including a 66-yard touchdown strike against Oregon State. He's already surpassed those numbers this season, with 28 receptions for 462 yards and four touchdowns.

In the ASU game, Williams caught touchdown passes on the Ducks' first two possessions, and had seven receptions for 100 yards in the first 12 minutes. "The thing about Jaison is he's still getting better," coach Mike Bellotti said. "He's a physical receiver. He can make the catch, he can go deep, he can turn a 5-yard hitch into a 50-yard gain." Williams, who began the season in a backup role behind Garren Strong, has posted 100 yards receiving in three straight games. He is the first Oregon receiver to accomplish that feat since Damon Griffin in 1998. At 6-foot-5, 240 pounds, Williams is a big target who runs precise patterns. "His speed is hidden to a certain degree," quarterback Dennis Dixon said. "Once you get on the field you see him get away from defenders really well." Williams' production has been off the charts the past two games (19 receptions for 314 yards and three touchdowns). He has emerged as one of the premier receivers in the conference along with USC's Dwayne Jarrett and Steve Smith, and California's DeSean Jackson.

Manley steps up

With injuries on the defensive line, end Dexter Manley II figures to receive more playing time. He had three sacks in the ASU game. "That's what I do. I can give you those," said Manley, a junior college transfer from Santa Monica (Calif.) College.

Manley has excellent bloodlines. His dad was a former all-pro defensive lineman for the Washington Redskins. "I watched a little film on what he did and what he tells me," Manley said. "(But) it's more my athleticism and strength. I'm a big guy, fast. There's really nothing to it."

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