In 2015, William Evans established himself as one of the top running backs in Kansas. The 6-foot, 207-pounder helped lead Stilwell (KS) Blue Valley to the Class 6A title game on the strength of 1,500 all-purpose yards and 13 total touchdowns, claiming Second Team All-Eastern Kansas League honors along the way.
“I try to focus on the fundamentals as a running back,” Evans said of his game. “Like ball security, cutting, patience-to and speed-through, and to keep my legs moving. I strive to be a complete running back by working on blocking and catching.”
Ranked Number 18 on the KansasGridiron Top 25, Evans is a legit every-down back. After his breakout junior year, he has again played a key role in the Tigers success, leading head coach Eric Driskell’s squad to an undefeated regular season with over 900 rushing yards and 13 TDs on the ground.
“It's an honor I didn't see coming,” he said of his spot on the KG 25. “I give credit to my team. At Blue Valley, the atmosphere is family. Everyone is together, through thick and thin.”
“We all face adversity together, and go through it together. We've made so many memories, and bonded with each other so much, that we play for each other on the field.”
Playing in the state’s largest classification, and competing against defending state champions Bishop Miege and Mill Valley in the Eastern Kansas League, Evans has shown his potential. With the frame and toughness to carry the load in a power running attack, and the speed to run away from tacklers, Evans has the tools college coaches look for. But Division I programs have yet to take notice.
“I've received an offer from Butler Community College,” Evans said of the perennial Jayhawk Conference power. “I've been in contact with Northern Iowa and Northwest Missouri State.”
Despite the lack of a big-time offer, Evans isn’t afraid of having to prove he can play at the highest level. Asked if he would be willing to prove his mettle at the junior college level, or if he would consider trying to walk-on and earn a spot with a Power 5 program, the Tigers RB didn’t hesitate.
“I'm comfortable going anywhere,” he said of his next stop. “Whether getting an offer, or walking on.”
As top-seeded Blue Valley gears up to face Olathe South this Friday in the 6A Sectionals, Evans believes the Tigers could make another storybook run to the State Championship.
“We have a very balanced team this year. We have great receivers that make big plays, a great line that opens holes for me, and great QB that has a great football IQ and vision.”
“It would be the perfect ending to a high school career,” he said of going out with another ring. “But we got to keep getting better and get there.”
