FootIK not properly applied when using Animator controller + Timeline

Standalone Animator Controller (with FootIK) or standalone Timline animation track applies FootIK properly, BUT Animator controller + Timeline does not apply FootIK.
note: timeline preview (play) gives the expected result, but not runtime playback/eval.
also, removing the Animator controller makes timeline apply FootIK properly and gives the expected result.

repro:
-open test1 scene
-preview play the timeline to see the expected result (Ethan's feet are not slipping)
-Editor Play (runtime) to see the bad result (Ethan's feet ARE slipping)
-remove "empty" controller from Ethan's Animator component, play...
...runtime result is now the expected result.
In this case, runtime playback should give the exact same result, with or without the Animator controller assigned, since timeline is driving the animation in both cases.