USC defensive coordinator Justin Wilcox praises Leonard Williams

USC defensive coordinator Justin Wilcox isn’t afraid to speak highly about Leonard Williams.

The praise isn’t likely to go to the junior defensive lineman’s head.

“He’s a pretty special player and pretty special guy,” Wilcox said after Wednesday’s practice. “I don’t really have a problem saying that, because no matter what, Leonard always comes out to get better.”

Williams led the Trojans’ defensive effort in a 13-10 victory at Stanford, despite playing with a sprained ankle.

Williams said his ankle is mending, but a full recovery is unlikely before Saturday’s game at Boston College.

He will probably play, anyway.

Wilcox said Williams has made the most of practice, despite limitations because of the injury.

“It’s not like he’s out here not paying attention,” Wilcox said. “When you go to meetings and you ask him a question, he knows the answer. And he probably knows the other guys’ answers too.”

Williams has a team-best 18 tackles, one interception and a sack.

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