Willizhuan Yates

Intercepted a pass during his first defensive series as a starter in 2024, in Week 6 at Kent State, and started six straight games ... named a starting cornerback opposite fellow freshman Eric McClain last season in Week 6 ... formal first name is Willizhuan but he goes by Will. 2024 (Fr.): Recorded 17 tackles with an interception and two tackles for loss, while appearing in 10 games with seven starts ... after limited duty in Ball State's first three games, he emerged with a season-high five tackles against Western Michigan (Nov. 5), then drew his first college start at Kent State (Nov. 12) ... picked off a pass in the game's opening series at Kent State to set up a Cardinals' touchdown ... recorded sacks laster in the year against Miami (Nov. 5) and Bowling Green (Nov. 23) ... did not play in the Cardinals' final game at Ohio due to injury. HIGH SCHOOL: A second-team All-Southwest Ohio pick and a first-team all-conference selection, Yates earned three varsity letters at Springboro High School under coach Ryan Wilhite … he played on both sides of the ball while earning Springboro’s team MVP award last season … he collected 24 career touchdowns at running back, before switching to a corner position last fall where he collected two interceptions and returned one for a score … he totaled 13 touchdowns in his junior season and posted a career-high game with 225 rushing yards … he also played varsity basketball over four seasons, including all-conference honors on the hardwood … he goes by “Will” but honors his given name Willizhuan … his social media handle is @willizhuan. PERSONAL: Son of Charlene and Willie … has six siblings …a hobby he enjoys is working out … a favorite athlete is former NFL defensive back Deion Sanders … he hopes to play in the league after college. Related