By Thomas Grant Jr.
A former multi-state champion at Dutch Fork concluded his collegiate career in MVP fashion.
Wide receiver Elijah Spencer helped Minnesota defeat Virginia Tech 24-10 at the Duke’s Mayo Bowl in Charlotte, N.C. on Jan. 3. The Charlotte transfer had six receptions for 81 yards and two touchdowns for the Gophers, who won their eight consecutive bowl game.
“It was big time, I am not going to lie,” Spencer told Sports Illustrated after the game when asked about how cool it was to play in the town of his former school. “I didn’t think I would have an opportunity to play in front of all my friends and family. I’d say that was the biggest part, to which I was afforded. A lot of friends and family hadn’t seen me play in Minnesota, so being able to play right here in my backyard. Why not?”
In Spencer’s two seasons since transferring from Charlotte, he caught 61 passes for 649 yards and nine touchdowns in 13 games.
During Spencer’s three seasons with the Silver Foxes, he played on a state championship team each year. He also went 37-0-1 over three seasons.
Antonio Williams
Another former Dutch Fork wide receiver who made news over the holidays was Antonio Williams. The Clemson junior announced on Instagram his plans to return to Death Valley next season instead of entering the NFL draft.
“More to be done,” Williams wrote.
A first-team All-ACC selection, Williams led the Tigers in receptions (75), receiving yards (904) and receiving touchdowns (11) in 2024 after an injury-plagued 2023 season.
Williams also threw a touchdown, joining C.J. Spiller, Jacoby Ford and Sammy Watkins as former Clemson players who have a touchdown passing, rushing, and receiving in the same season.
Feature photo – by Brad Rempel – University of Minnesota wide receiver Elliott Spencer with the touchdown reception against Virginia Tech.
