Missouri’s talented defensive ends drew ample praise from Nebraska coach Bill Callahan this week.

However, the Tigers also look to Williams to make big plays — and he’s responded well.

With standout defensive end Brian Smith sidelined with a broken hip, Williams is Missouri’s sack leader with 5½ through nine games. His 8½ tackles for loss also lead the Tigers, who rank 26th nationally in total defense.

“I remember when I played linebacker in high school, I felt like I couldn’t get blocked at all and that I’m the best person out there,” Williams, a native of Midwest City, Okla., told The Columbia (Mo.) Tribune. “You have to think you’re the best to be the best.”

Williams was one of few bright spots for Missouri in last week’s 26-10 home loss to Oklahoma. He led the Tigers’ down linemen with four tackles, finished with a team-high 2½   stops behind the line of scrimmage,  and recorded the team’s only sack. In the first game since Smith suffered his injury, Williams was Mizzou’s best pass-rusher and arguably its best defender overall, as he also forced a fumble.

Many believe Williams, who arrived on campus as a 235-pound linebacker, is playing at an all-conference level.