THI caught up Saturday with former Ohio State and new North Carolina running back Antonio Williams on Saturday to discuss his decision to transfer from the Buckeyes to the Tar Heels.

Williams was taking in the VTO Sports Elite 100 Showcase at Mallard Creek High School in the Charlotte area, and we spent several minutes with the former North Stanly High School (New London, NC) standout, who was sporting a Carolina blue UNC t-shirt.

Williams, who is 6-0 and 205 pounds, originally committed to UNC while in high school before flipping to Wisconsin and eventually ending up at Ohio State. In two seasons for the Buckeyes, he played in nine games running the ball 63 times for 318 yards (5.0 average) scoring 3 touchdowns. He also caught 5 passes for 25 yards.

What went into the decision to transfer from Ohio State to UNC?

Williams: Things didn’t go as planned at Ohio State. No hard feelings toward Ohio State, things happen. But, I’m just glad to be back in North Carolina and representing the Tar Heels.

What’s going on with your eligibility?

Williams: I am going for the hardship. We submitted that recently and we’re just kind of waiting to see and I’m thinking I’ve got a good shot at getting it, I’m hoping everything goes through. I really do hope that I can play this season for the Heels.

So if the hardship passes you’ll be eligible this fall?

Williams: Yes, I will be eligible this fall.

What are your plans in the meantime?

Williams: I start this coming week. I just (rented) a house up there and getting everything situated. I’ve got my classes, and I’ll start classes and do summer school and all that and just get everything going.

At running back, you have Michael Carter, Jordon Brown, some good recruits – Devon Lawrence – are you anxious to get in there and compete with those guys?

Williams: Yeah, for sure. That’s what I got used to at Ohio State competing with Mike (Weber) and J.K. (Dobbins) up there, I definitely think I’m ready to compete with the guys in the room here and be a part of that room.

Anything you want to tell Tar Heel Nation?

Williams: Like I said, I’m excited to be home, I’m excited to represent the Heels and taking us back to the ACC championship.