Minutes after Nebraska completed its first of two scheduled practices Friday, wide receivers coach Keith Williams delivered a statement on his four-game suspension stemming from his recent third-offense DUI arrest in Lincoln.
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Williams was involved in a crash just blocks from Memorial Stadium, where the Cornhuskers play home football games, at approximately 1:50 a.m. Sunday and Lincoln Police said his blood-alcohol level was.15, almost double the legal limit of.08.
“Words can not fully express my deep regret and profound remorse for my actions this past weekend”, Williams said in an apology. “I understand there is no room for error for me at Nebraska and I am going to work hard every day to prove that I am worthy to represent the Huskers”. The previous two DUIs on Williams record where in 2004 and 2009 when he was on the Cal coaching staff.
“Keith has initiated counseling and he has pledged to assist the department, University and greater community in educational and outreach efforts to prevent drunk driving”, said Mike Riley, Nebraska’s head coach.
It’s one that, according to Eichorst, comes with a “very, very small margin of error moving forward”, but both Riley and Eichorst remained hopeful that their faith in Williams will be rewarded.
“I know it was a bad mistake”.
University of Nebraska Athletic Director Shawn Eichorst says he knew not everyone would be pleased with the specifics of the suspension, but after many discussions, this is what was best for all parties involved. He has accepted full responsibility for his failings.
Nebraska will open the season at home on September 3rd against Fresno State. We’re reaching out to help him and strengthen his life. “I also believe in redemption and I fully support Coach Riley and Shawn Eichorst’s decision to give Keith an opportunity to change his life for the better so that he can continue to make an impact on our students, the university and in the community”. He also can’t coach in the first four games of the season. Asked the range of offenses that would lead to Williams” firing, Eichorst said, “It’s hard to get into those hypotheticals, but I think you could honestly come up with some thoughts that if he did anything further in that regard, “Would he be here?’ No”.
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“I make no excuses, I accept the consequences”, said Williams. Keith has made a serious mistake and there is no question that disciplinary action is required. Keith Williams will be eligible to return for their October 1 game against IL.
