University of Maine senior running back Marcus Williams is among 16 candidates for the Walter Payton Award.

Williams, a two-time 1,000-yard rusher, has run for 333 yards and four touchdowns in four games against nationally-ranked I-AA opponents and I-A team Mississippi State. He was a finalist last years for the award, presented annually to the most outstanding I-AA football player in the nation. New Hampshire freshman quarterback Ricky Santos is also a candidate.