Caleb Williams claims Pac-12 title outcome should've been different

In an interview with ESPN, USC quarterback Caleb Williams claimed that the Pac-12 Championship would've been different had he not been injured.

More than two months after the Utah Utes went back-to-back as Pac-12 Champions, USC quarterback Caleb Williams claimed the outcome could've been much different had he not suffered a serious injury.

During a 59-yard run in the first quarter, Williams sustained a hamstring injury that significantly impacted his performance and forced him to shy away from run plays for the remainder of the contest.

Despite still posting 363 yards and three touchdowns, William's performance wasn't enough and the Utes emerged victorious 47-24 to defend their crown.

Utah Utes quarterback Cameron Rising hoists the Pac-12 Championship trophy after the game against the Southern California Trojans at Allegiant Stadium / Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

According to Williams, had he not suffered the hamstring injury, the outcome would've been much different.

“Myself would be, mainly, make sure that I keep my body healthy,” Williams told ESPN in a recent appearance on Sports Center. “The outcome could have been a little different if I was healthy that last game (Pac-12 Championship Game) and I truly believe that."

Caleb Williams says he wasn't healthy at end of 2022 season. 🩻

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— 247Sports (@247Sports) February 12, 2023

To be fair, Williams was clearly affected by the injury as he refused to operate outside the pocket and didn't really move the ball with his legs from that point on.

However, it's important to note that the Utes were also dealing with injuries but still managed to defend their title and absolutely dominated the Trojans. Without Brant Kuithe, Van Fillinger, Tavion Thomas and Chris Curry among others, Utah embraced the next-man-up mentality and took care of business. 

Utah Utes wide receiver Money Parks (10) celebrates after scoring on a 57-yard touchdown reception against the Southern California Trojans in the second half of the Pac-12 Championship at Allegiant St / Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

So while the best player on the field was undeniably dealing with an injury, it's still a team game and the Utes were obviously the better squad not once, but twice against the Trojans last season.

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