Schuck on a Truck Zoom edition: Liberty running back Wentric Williams III

The name is the same. And if you watch Wentric Williams III run with the football tucked tightly in his right arm, you’ll see glimpses of his father. And then there’s that million-watt smile. It’s part of what made Wentric Williams II electric. His namesake shares that electricity.

But be clear about one thing — Wentric Williams III is his own man and is taking the lessons learned from his late father, the former Hannibal all-state running back, in creating his own legacy and bringing honor to the memory of his father.

Williams III heads into the final week of the regular season having helped the Liberty, Mo., football team to a 5-3 record. He’s rushed for 1,218 yards and 16 touchdowns, while averaging 6.3 yards per carry. It’s his third straight 1,000-yard season.

He won’t challenge his father’s career numbers. Wentric Williams II finished with 4,723 yards and 57 touchdowns, while setting single-season records with 2,600 yards rushing and 34 touchdowns in 2000. Still, Williams III’s career numbers — 3,586 yards rushing and 40 touchdowns — are incredibly impressive and make him a valued commodity.

He’s also a state champion wrestler who is being recruited by NCAA Division I programs.

More importantly, he’s uploading the legacy of being a bright student, a charismatic leader and an example to follow. Those are some of the same characteristics that made people gravitate toward his father, dubbed “Electric Wentric.” Williams died from an aneurysm on Sept. 26, 2020, while coaching his youth football team. He was just 37.

Williams III recently joined Muddy River Sports editor Matt Schuckman on a Zoom call to discuss football, wrestling, the impact and legacy of his father and that electric vibe that lets people know he is his father’s son.