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Data Scout Notes: 2023: 12-05-23 Transfer from Oregon State...2022: 12-05-22 Transfer from Clemson/NAC...PUnitas...2021: NAC...POBrien...2020: NAC
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The most anticipated quarterback competition in some time at OSU. It's at least a two-man battle between incumbent starter Ben Gulbranson and Clemson transfer D.J. Uiagalelei. There figures to be plenty of spotlight on 4-star freshman Aidan Chiles, too. Gulbranson checks the main box as to what a quarterback should do: win. Replacing an injured Chance Nolan five weeks into 2022 season, Gulbranson won seven of his eight starts. But outsiders would point out the position was hardly dynamic under Gulbranso n. The Beavers' offense leaned heavily on the run game as the passing attack was pedestrian. Others push back, saying Gulbranson was an elite game manager, often calling the right play at the right time. It's hard to argue against 7-1.Regardless, there's no harm to see whether the Beavers can do more at the position in 2023, which leads to Uiagalelei. During a three-year career at Clemson, the 6-foot-4, 235-pound Uiagalelei started 28 games, completing 515 of 861 passes for 5,681 yards and 36 tou chdowns, with 17 interceptions. Moreover, Uiagalelei is a run threat, as he produced 913 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns at Clemson. On paper, Oregon State has never had a quarterback like Uiagalelei, a former 5-star recruit who competed and produced for a perennial top-10 program. But he also had accuracy issues at Clemson, and eventually fell out of favor. Is a change of scenery all Uiagalelei needs to return to stardom? That's what Oregon State plans to find out this spring, summer and August camp. - The Oregonian
(DS#7 QB) rSr/2025  QB DJ Uiagalelei, Florida State
News Source: The Oregonian
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According to multiple reports, quarterback D.J. Uiagalelei is expected to sign with Oregon State after entering the transfer portal following his third season at Clemson. The news was first reported Friday night by Pete Thamel of ESPN. Uiagalelei announc ed he was entering the portal on social media but has not yet posted any announcement of where he plans to enroll. Thamel reported that Uiagalelei is expected to make his decision official in the coming days.Uiagalelei started two games as a fresh man at Clemson before taking over the starting role as a sophomore and leading the Tigers to a 10-3 record. As a junior, he started 13 games before being benched during the ACC championship game against North Carolina. Following that game he entered the transfer portal. His overall record as a starter is 21-6. During his career at Clemson, Uiagalelei completed 60% of his passes for 5,681 yards and 36 touchdowns with 17 interceptions. He also scored 15 rushing touchdowns. - Gazette Times
(DS#7 QB) rSr/2025 QB DJ Uiagalelei, Florida State
News Source: Gazette Times
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Per USA Today, UCLA is the most obvious landing spot for Clemson transfer DJ Uiagalelei, who went to high school in nearby Bellflower, California, and could easily slide into the starting role vacated by Dorian Thompson-Robinson. After being replaced by Cade Klubnik in the ACC championship game, Uiagalelei would get a much-needed reboot in an offensive scheme that could maximize his ability to be a hammer in the running game. - USA Today
(DS#7 QB) rSr/2025 QB DJ Uiagalelei, Florida State
News Source: USA Today
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Clemson quarterback DJ Uiagalelei has entered the transfer portal after an up-and-down two seasons as the starter, the school confirmed Monday. Uiagalelei was replaced after two series in Saturday’s 39-10 win over North Carolina in the Atlantic Coast C onference championship, and coach Dabo Swinney already has announced freshman Cade Klubnik will start in the Orange Bowl against Tennessee. The 10th-ranked Tigers (11-2) started 8-0, but Uiagalelei struggled in the Oct. 22 game against Syracuse and was b enched in the second half. Klubnik led a fourth-quarter comeback in a 27-21 win.Clemson’s offense was stagnant in a 35-14 loss at Notre Dame, and Uiagalelei was just 8-of-29 passing in a 31-30 loss to South Carolina. Klubnik took over after the Tigers went three-and-out on their first two possessions against North Carolina. The 6-foot-4, 235-pound Uiagalelei was one of the top recruits in the country out of St. John Bosco High in Bellflower, California. Over 35 games in three seasons for Clemso n, he threw for 5,681 yards and 36 touchdowns with a 59.8% completion rate and 17 interceptions. - AP College Football
(DS#7 QB) rSr/2025 QB DJ Uiagalelei, Florida State
News Source: AP College Football
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The Tigers have set a high bar by winning national championships, so as much as they will enjoy getting back atop the ACC mountain there will be plenty of talk over whether Swinney cost his team a chance at a spot in the College Football Playoff by not t urning to Cade Klubnik at quarterback earlier in the season. It seems Uiagalelei might be a logical transfer portal candidate. - AP College Football
(DS#7 QB) rSr/2025 QB DJ Uiagalelei, Florida State
News Source: AP College Football
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Clemson coach Dabo Swinney said DJ Uiagalelei will remain the team's starting quarterback for the ACC Championship game against No. 24 North Carolina. Swinney said Sunday that Uiagalelei was not the reason for the 10th-ranked Tigers' 31-30 loss to rival South Carolina ON Saturday. Uiagalelei completed just 8 of 29 passes for 99 yards in the rivalry loss. He threw a interception in the second half as the Tigers were trying to rally for the go-ahead score. Swinney said Uiagalelei's receivers had a number of drops and the defensive backs were beaten deep by South Carolina quarterback Spencer Rattler at crucial moments. "He's still the starter," Swinney said. "He doesn't play safety or catch the ball. He's got his share of things he can do better. But he w ill definitely start the game." Uiagalelei appeared as if he had found his form through Clemson's 7-0 start with 17 touchdowns and just two interceptions. But he has thrown at least one pick in the Tigers' past five games and was benched against Syracuse and Notre Dame for freshman Cade Klubnik. The Tigers (10-2) look for their seventh Atlantic Coast Conference crown in the past eight seasons when they face the Tar Heels (9-3) on Saturday. - AP College Football
(DS#7 QB) rSr/2025 QB DJ Uiagalelei, Florida State
News Source: AP College Football
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DJ Uiagalelei threw for two touchdowns and ran for a third as No. 9 Clemson wrapped up an undefeated ACC regular season and won its 40th straight at home beating Miami 40-10 on Saturday. The Tigers (10-1, 8-0 ACC) have won at least 10 games in 12 straigh t seasons and - for a half - had their most dominant showing on both sides of the ball. Clemson scored touchdowns on three of its first four possessions while Miami (5-6, 3-4) was stuffed by the Tigers defense. Uiagalelei connected on a 7-yard TD pass to Davis Allen, then ran one in from 8 yards out to lead 14-0 less than 11 minutes in. After safety Jalyn Phillips' interception, Clemson again found the end zone on Uiagalelei's 2-yard throw to tight end Luke Price.Miami had no answers. Freshman Ja curri Brown, who sparked the Hurricanes to a 35-14 win over Georgia Tech last week, was hounded by Clemson's defenders and off target when he was able to throw the ball. The Hurricanes managed just 8 yards total the first two quarters and a season-low 98 for the game. In the second half, Miami took advantage of Clemson's sloppy play to tighten things up. A fourth-quarter fumble by Uiagalelei was returned to the Tigers 10 and backup Jake Garcia tossed a 1-yard score to Kahlil Brantley to cut things to 26 -10. But that's as close as the Hurricanes could come. They'll need a win over Pitt next week to make the postseason in coach Mario Cristobal's debut season. Uiagalelei completed 22 of 34 throws for 227 yards and an interception. He also led the Tigers i n rushing with 89 yards. - Clemson/AP College Football
(DS#7 QB) rSr/2025 QB DJ Uiagalelei, Florida State
News Source: Clemson/AP College Football
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DJ Uiagalelei threw for a touchdown and ran for another and Will Shipley hurdled Louisville's M.J. Griffin on the way for a 25-yard score as No. 12 Clemson won its 39th straight at home, 31-16 over the Cardinals on Saturday night. The Tigers (9-1, 7-0 At lantic Coast Conference) had wrapped up the ACC Atlantic Division - and its spot in the league title game next month - a week ago before their demoralizing, 35-14 loss at No. 20 Notre Dame. But Uiagalelei and the Clemson defense got back on track to impr ove to 8-0 all-time over Louisville (6-4, 3-4). The Cardinals, who came in with a four-game win streak, played the second half without standout quarterback Malik Cunningham, who was hurt on the last play of the second quarter.Uiagalelei completed 19 of 27 throws for 185 yards. Phil Mafah ran for 106 yards and Shipley 97 as the Tigers finished with 248 yards on the ground. Clemson needed a fast start and got it. Uiagalelei led a 12-play, 75-yard scoring march on the opening drive that he ended wit h a nifty 11-yard run as the Tigers built a 10-0 lead. Uiagalelei's 4-yard pass to freshman Antonio Williams with 32 seconds left before the half sent Clemson into the break up 17-7. Williams had a career best 10 catches for 83 yards. Louisville was held to 160 yards in the first half - and 61 came in the final half minute as the Cardinals moved to the Clemson 14 before the clock ran out. Cunningham looked like he had the speed and a path to the end zone on the half's final play, but he stumbled cutting across the field and fell. Trainers came out as the team headed to the locker room and Cunningham spent a few minutes on the field before joining them. Cunningham did not return due to a shoulder injury as Brock Domann took over at quarterback. - Clemso n/AP College Football
(DS#7 QB) rSr/2025 QB DJ Uiagalelei, Florida State
News Source: Clemson/AP College Football
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Clemson coach Dabo Swinney is prepared to do what it takes to improve his struggling offense - even if that means benching starting quarterback DJ Uiagalelei for more than a series or two. Uiagalelei, a 6-foot-3, 235-pound junior, was removed from each o f the past two games, the last a demoralizing 35-14 loss at No. 20 Notre Dame last week that ended the undefeated start of the 12th-ranked Tigers (8-1, 6-0 Atlantic Coast Conference). Uiagalelei will start this week at home against Louisville (6-3, 3-3), Swinney said, but if he can't find his form from earlier this season, he won't stay in. "He has to play better and get back on track. That's the reality of the situation," Swinney said Tuesday. "We've watched every play with him. If you don't play bette r, someone else gets a chance." The past two games that's been five-star freshman backup Cade Klubnik, with mixed results.Uiagalelei left the Syracuse game on Oct. 22 in the third quarter after three turnovers and Clemson trailing 21-10. Klubnik s parked a fourth-quarter rally and a 27-21 victory that, combined with an upcoming bye week, was the perfect way for Uiagalelei and the Tigers' offense to refresh and regroup for the stretch run. Instead, Clemson played its worst game of the season in all phases - it had a punt blocked for a TD, Uiagalelei and Klubnik each threw interceptions leading to scores, and the Irish ran for 271 yards. Swinney said that's not all on Uiagalelei, who in 2020 threw for 439 yards at Notre Dame Stadium as a freshman i n his second career start. Uiagalelei "doesn't punt protect and he's not asked to stop the run," Swinney said. - AP College Football
(DS#7 QB) rSr/2025 QB DJ Uiagalelei, Florida State
News Source: AP College Football
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DJ Uiagalelei threw for 203 yards and three touchdowns and No. 4 Clemson forced a momentum-turning takeaway to hold off Florida State 34-28 on Saturday night. Clemson (7-0, 5-0 Atlantic Coast Conference) scored on six straight drives and surpassed the 30 -point mark for a seventh straight game to open the season. Will Shipley had 20 carries for 121 yards and six catches for 48 yards to help the Tigers to their seventh straight victory over the Seminoles.Lawrance Toafili ran for 68 yards and Florid a State (4-3, 2-3) accumulated 196 on the ground. Toafili also had six receptions for 45 yards, but the Seminoles dropped their third straight game. While Florida State kept up with Clemson for the first 20 minutes, defensive end Myles Murphy's sack of J ordan Travis forced a fumble and the Tigers were set up with a short field. Three plays later, Uiagalelei's 5-yard TD run put Clemson up 24-14. Travis led Florida State on a pair of touchdown drives in the fourth quarter, the second a 94-yard march that culminated in a 25-yard TD pass to Kentron Poitier with 2:17 left and cut Clemson's lead to 34-28. But the Tigers recovered the onside kick and were able to put the game away. - Clemson/AP College Football
(DS#7 QB) rSr/2025 QB DJ Uiagalelei, Florida State
News Source: Clemson/AP College Football
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DJ Uiagalelei threw for 220 yards and three touchdowns and ran for 69 yards Saturday night to help No. 5 Clemson break it open in the second half and beat Boston College 31-3. The Tigers (6-0, 4-0 Atlantic Coast Conference) scored touchdowns on back-to-b ack possessions sandwiched around halftime to turn a 3-3 game into a runaway. Meanwhile, BC (2-4, 1-3) went three-and-out and punted four times in five series, with only halftime interrupting the streak. Beaux Collins caught four passes for 58 yards, inc luding a 10-yard score. He also grabbed a 20-yard throw to set up Uiagalelei's 38-yard touchdown pass to Joseph Ngata to end a five-play, 73-yard drive that made it 17-3 early in the third quarter. Phil Jurkovec completed 19 of 40 passes for 188 yards, s pending much of the game scrambling behind BC's makeshift offensive line. - Clemson/AP College Football
(DS#7 QB) rSr/2025 QB DJ Uiagalelei, Florida State
News Source: Clemson/AP College Football
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DJ Uiagalelei ran for two touchdowns and threw for a third as No. 5 Clemson won its 11th consecutive game, its 37th straight at home and took control of the ACC Atlantic with a 30-20 victory over No. 10 North Carolina State on Saturday night. The Tigers (3-0 ACC) started 5-0 for the seventh time in eight years and completed a two-week stretch where they bested the two teams thought most likely to block their return atop the division - first with a 51-45 OT win at No. 22 Wake Forest last Saturday and now the Wolfpack (4-1, 0-1) at Death Valley. Uiagalelei ignited the Tigers right before and right after the half to build a lead that N.C. State, playing in its first-ever Top 10 matchup, couldn't overcome. Uiagalelei finished a 75-yard scoring drive by str etching the ball over the goal for a 1-yard score to move in front 13-10. Then, after Clemson's defense forced a three-and-out with a pair of sacks on 'Pack quarterback Devin Leary, Uiagalelei cashed in again with 7-yard touchdown throw to tight end Jake Briningstool.Clemson's defense did the rest, holding the potent Wolfpack to just a field goal over the first 29 minutes of the second half in building a 17-point lead. The Tigers also picked off Leary and recovered a fumble when N.C. State went f or it on 4th-and-13 down 10 with less than nine minutes left. Clemson, which hasn't lost at home since November 2016, matched Florida State's ACC mark of 37 straight at home set from 1992-2001. The Tigers' 11 in a row since last season in the longest cur rent streak in the FBS. Clemson also holds tiebreakers in the division over the Demon Deacons and Wolfpack. Clemson and N.C. State came in with two of the highest-scoring offenses in the ACC and figured to trade trips to the end zone throughout. Instead, it was a struggled for each to find points in the first 30 minutes. - Clemson/AP College Football
(DS#7 QB) rSr/2025 QB DJ Uiagalelei, Florida State
News Source: Clemson/AP College Football
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SEPT 26 ACC QUARTERBACK OF THE WEEK: DJ Uiagalelei, Clemson, QB, Inland Empire, Calif.,...Completed 26-of-41 passes for a season-high 371 passing yards with a career-high five passing touchdowns in Saturday's 51-45 double-overtime win at No. 21 Wake Fore st ... Added 52 rushing yards on 14 carries ... Became the first Clemson quarterback to throw five touchdown passes in a game since Trevor Lawrence at Georgia Tech in 2020 ... Engineered his fourth career fourth-quarter comeback win, tying Deshaun Watson for the second-most by a Clemson quarterback since 2000 ... Became the first Clemson player with at least 370 passing yards, at least five touchdowns and no interceptions since Watson at NC State in 2015. - ACC Football
(DS#7 QB) rSr/2025 QB DJ Uiagalelei, Florida State
News Source: ACC Football
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Nate Wiggins broke up Sam Hartman's fourth-down pass in the end zone to help No. 5 Clemson hold off No. 21 Wake Forest 51-45 in double overtime on Saturday. Wiggins had been targeted frequently by Hartman and the Wake Forest receivers but came through to knock away Hartman's final ball for A.T. Perry. He fell to the end zone turf, then sprung up to join his team in celebration after a wild shootout between the reigning Atlantic Coast Conference's Atlantic Division Demon Deacons and the preseason league favorite Tigers. "We'll get this defense fixed," Clemson coach Dabo Swinney said on the ESPN postgame interview. "But man, this offense … all the big plays, they never flinched. That's what it's all about. I'm just really proud of them. they grew up a little bit tonight." D.J. Uiagalelei threw for 375 yards and five touchdowns to lead Clemson (4-0, 2-0 ACC), including the go-ahead score over the middle to Davis Allen to start the second overtime.The Tigers also came up with a few key plays defe nsively at big moments late to take some pressure off an injury-battered secondary, including Tyler Davis teaming with linemate Myles Murphy to sack Hartman on a potentially winning Wake Forest drive that had neared midfield late in regulation. Hartman t hrew for 337 yards and a program-record six touchdowns for Wake Forest (3-1, 0-1), including two each to Jahmal Banks and Donavon Greene. But the Demon Deacons stalled out near midfield on a potential winning drive to end regulation, then couldn't stop t he Tigers in the first OT after starting off with Hartman's TD throw to Perry. It marked Clemson's 14th straight win in the series, with Wake Forest's last win coming in 2008 - which led to the ouster of Tommy Bowden as coach and Swinney being named the interim. - Clemson/AP College Football
(DS#7 QB) rSr/2025 QB DJ Uiagalelei, Florida State
News Source: Clemson/AP College Football
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DJ Uiagalelei looks more and more like the leader who can continue Clemson's championship legacy, than the one who struggled his first season as a starter a year ago. Uiagalelei threw for 231 yards and two touchdowns and the fifth-ranked Tigers took a bi g, first-half lead to beat FCS opponent Furman 35-12 on Saturday. "You can see he's playing with a lot of confidence," Clemson offensive coordinator Brandon Streeter said. "It shows." That wasn't the case in 2021 as Uiagalelei, the highly touted passer w ho figured to instantly replace Clemson's No. 1 NFL draft pick in Trevor Lawrence, struggled to find his way. Uiagalelei had nine touchdowns against 10 interceptions as the Tigers fell from the national and ACC title chase by midseason. "There's been nob ody more under the fire than him," Clemson coach Dabo Swinney said about Uiagalelei. "Two games don't make a season, but proud of how he's played." Uiagalelei led Clemson to touchdowns on his first five drives to take a 35-9 lead early in the third quart er. Uiagalelei did have a pick off a tipped ball with his team ahead by 23 points. "For the most part, I played a solid game," Uiagalelei said. "Overall, I thought it was good game today." - Clemson/AP College Football
(DS#7 QB) rSr/2025 QB DJ Uiagalelei, Florida State
News Source: Clemson/AP College Football
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DJ Uiagalelie threw for one touchdown and ran for another, overcoming a sluggish start in the season opener as No. 4 Clemson pulled away for a 41-10 victory over Georgia Tech on Monday night. Uiagalelie completed 19 of 32 passes for 209 yards, including a 6-yard scoring play to Beaux Collins that gave the Tigers a two-touchdown lead in the first half. Georgia Tech, looking to improve on three straight three-win seasons that have put coach Geoff Collins on the hot seat, kept it closer than expected much of the way. But the Yellow Jackets couldn't overcome two blocked punts, both of which led to short touchdown runs by Will Shipley.Georgia Tech pulled within 14-10 on an impressive drive in the third quarter, culminating with Jeff Sims tossing a 13 -yard TD pass to 6-foot-7 transfer E.J. Jenkins. But Uiagalelie, in what was probably the play of the game, appeared headed for a sack when he was cornered by two Georgia Tech defenders on the third-and-4. But the quarterback managed to stay upright just long enough to flip a lateral to Shipley, who rumbled 10 yards for a first down that kept the Clemson offense on the field. The Tigers went on to drive 74 yards for a touchdown that finally buried the Yellow Jackets. Uiagalelie ran it in from 9 yards ou t to push Clemson's lead to 24-10. Clemson scored its first touchdown on special teams after both teams had early struggles on offense. - AP College Football
(DS#7 QB) rSr/2025 QB DJ Uiagalelei, Florida State
News Source: AP College Football
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Speaking Monday, offensive coordinator Brandon Streeter added that DJ Uiagalelei "has a lot of confidence right now in moving around, escaping the pocket and creating plays with his feet" now that he's fully recovered from a knee injury that bothered him through the 2021 season. "He showed that a lot on Saturday," Streeter said, "and, man, he did some really, really good stuff. I'm excited to see how he does it this fall." In his previous roles as Clemson quarterbacks coach and passing game coordinator, first-year offensive coordinator Streeter has seen how effective quarterback runs - both scripted and unscripted - can force a defense to play on its toes.Designed runs and scrambles were key parts of Clemson's offense with Deshaun Watson and Tre vor Lawrence, both of whom led the Tigers to College Football Playoff national championships and were Heisman Trophy finalists. "Every quarterback's a little bit different on what type of runs we call for the quarterback," Streeter said, "but that's a bi g part of this offense." Uiagalelei has never been a run-first quarterback. He was the country's top pro-style passer coming out of high school in California and flashed those skills as a true freshman. Now, above all else, he's keen on improving his mec hanics after ranking as the ACC's least efficient quarterback during a nine-touchdown, 10-interception 2021 campaign. If his overall improvement leads to a more dual-threat role, though, he's all for it "I feel light on my feet, man," Uiagalelei said. "I feel ready to go." - The State
(DS#7 QB) rSr/2025 QB DJ Uiagalelei, Florida State
News Source: The State
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When running back Kobe Pace has the ear of his quarterback, D.J. Uiagalelei, he offers a piece of advice that sounds more like a reminder. "Just be you, man," Pace said. "Nobody has to go out there in front of 80,000 people and throw a ball but you. You gotta do that. So that's what you do. That's your responsibility." Uiagalelei, the former five-star recruit, came into last season with his potential greatness compared to the realized greatness of Trevor Lawrence. After an uneven first season as Clemson 's starter, the big-armed quarterback has faced questions about whether he is, in fact, good enough. There was nothing but empty concrete staring back at Uiagalelei and Clemson's offense on Aug. 13 as they entered Memorial Stadium for a preseason scrimma ge.But it was a moment where Uiagalelei answered some questions. The entire offense did. "Honestly, I kinda saw that comin'," Swinney said. "I told the defense, it was very competitive." In Swinney's experience, the defense is usually ahead of the offense early in preseason camp. And this is supposed to be one of the more talented defenses Clemson has had in a while. But the results of the first scrimmage, as relayed by Swinney, continue the optimistic appraisals of Uiagalelei's growth. Part of h is maturity is actually a reduction, slimming down from over 260 pounds to just under 235. With that noticeably lighter frame, Uiagalelei made plays in the scrimmage that wouldn't have been possible a year ago. "I'm proud of D.J.," Swinney said. "He made two or three big plays with his legs." - Charleston Post Courier
(DS#7 QB) rSr/2025 QB DJ Uiagalelei, Florida State
News Source: Charleston Post Courier
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DJ Uiagalelei dealt with lingering finger and knee injuries last season, Swinney said, but the quarterback confirmed he's fully healthy entering preseason camp. He should benefit, too, from continuity and health along Clemson's offensive line, which got rolling during the Tigers' late-season six-game winning streak and returns four starters. Uiagalelei also has a haul of returning skill position players, which includes a three-headed monster at running back and a number of experienced wide receivers and tight ends, at his disposal.At that point, it'll be up to Uiagalelei and Uiagalelei alone to rise above sophomore struggles and meet Clemson's sky-high expectations, as well as his sky-high expectations for himself. Easier said than, Swinney ackn owledges, but attainable for his QB1. "It's a game of performance, and you can't change that," Swinney said. "I can talk about how great he is all day long. He has to go do it. (But) I believe in him, and there ain't no doubt about that." - The State
(DS#7 QB) rSr/2025 QB DJ Uiagalelei, Florida State
News Source: The State
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In not-so-subtle ways, the D.J. Uiagalelei who occupied the ACC Kickoff stage on July 20 stood in contrast with last year's version. One aspect was the Clemson quarterback's brown suit, which wrapped more tightly around his waist than the one he wore in 2021. Then, he weighed upwards of 260 pounds. But his current 6-foot-4, 235-pound frame was too svelte. He had to make a visit to the tailor before heading to Charlotte. Uiagalelei also switched up his jewelry. Last year, a "Big 5inco" chain rested above his tie, the presumed Heisman favorite flashing his brand. But this time, a thick gold piece shaped in the image of Jesus' face hung around his neck, accented by crystals that recreated the crown of thorns on his head. When Uiagalelei ordered the piece this spring, he told the jeweler in California, "Let's go big or go home." Uiagalelei was still center stage, still a prominent face for the ACC's premier football power. But the nature of the questions Uiagalelei received from reporters at the Charlotte Westin drew the sharpest contrast from his first visit to the ACC Kickoff a year ago.Then, the former five-star recruit was asked about coming to Clemson to sit a year behind Trevor Lawrence, with the analogy being future Hall of Famer Aaron Rodg ers' apprenticeship behind Hall of Famer Brett Favre in the NFL. He was pressed on the challenges of the 2021 season - but also the contents of a prospective Bojangles meal deal in his own name. This time, reporters wanted to know what went wrong. They w anted to know if this version of Uiagalelei was different than the last, because they had all watched a presumed Heisman favorite finish 15th in the ACC in passing efficiency. "I wouldn't say I have to be a better version, but just be the version of who I am," Uiagalelei said. "I understand how good I am, how talented I am. For me, I just need to go out there and show the world." - Charleston Post Courier
(DS#7 QB) rSr/2025 QB DJ Uiagalelei, Florida State
News Source: Charleston Post Courier
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Clemson football spent most of Wednesday answering the question that will, for better or worse, define its 2022 season: What's the deal at quarterback? Incumbent DJ Uiagalelei was Trevor Lawrence's heir apparent last summer, but his up-and-down 2021 seas on inspired little long-term confidence. Now his seat's even hotter thanks to the presence of highly touted freshman Cade Klubnik. Head coach Dabo Swinney threw his full weight behind Uiagalelei this week, noting how former star Clemson quarterbacks Desh aun Watson and Lawrence also made mistakes as first-time starters but Uiagalelei's were "magnified" by the injuries and offensive struggles around him.Uiagalelei threw for 2,246 yards, nine touchdowns and 10 interceptions in 13 games last year, le ading Clemson to six consecutive wins to end its season but ranking among the ACC's worst quarterbacks by standard and advanced metrics. The 6-foot-4 Uiagalelei has also lost about 30 pounds (from 265 to 235) since Clemson's December Cheez-It Bowl win ov er Iowa State and said he's in "the best shape of my life" entering his junior year. Still, Klubnik looms large. He's a former five-star recruit and Elite 11 MVP who led his high school to consecutive undefeated seasons and state championships in Texas' top classification. He also impressed in limited spring game action. - The State
(DS#7 QB) rSr/2025 QB DJ Uiagalelei, Florida State
News Source: The State
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"Big Cinco" might just be a nickname in word only for DJ Uiagalelei moving forward. Clemson's rising junior quarterback revealed Friday evening that he had lost around 20 pounds during the offseason. He said he got up to around 260 pounds last season and is now 240, but wants to try and get down to 230 or 235. A large part of the slimming-down process was cutting out sweets and fast food. That includes In-N-Out, a staple in Uiagalelei's home state of California, and Bojangles, one of the first companies to offer him a name, image and likeness deal last summer. "Bojangles," he said, hesitating, "I mean, Bojangles, right now, I'm cutting it out just a little bit, just kind of cutting it out but in moderation." As much as he'd like to eat ice cream or mak e a quick stop at Bojangles, Uiagalelei is thinking long-term about his overall health and what's best for his football career.He compared his new mindset to recently retired NFL quarterback Tom Brady's approach to physical health and diet. "You k ind of see like the TB12 diet and stuff like that where your body's like a temple," the Tigers' signal caller said. "You want to be able to treat your body like a Ferrari. I stopped eating fast food and trying to treat (my body) like a high-engine car, l ike a fancy car. Kind of just like good stuff in your body, and that's what I've been doing." - The State
(DS#7 QB) rSr/2025 QB DJ Uiagalelei, Florida State
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Clemson's offense continued to look out of sorts as D.J. Uiagalelei completed 21 of 44 passes for 241 yards a touchdown and an interception in the Tigers 44-7 win over UConn on Saturday. An easy win has been a rarity for Clemson (7-3) in this unusual sea son, but the victory over one of the worst teams in FBS didn't answer a lot of questions. "We didn't play to that standard today. We'll take accountability for it and work on it," Clemson offensive coordinator Tony Elliot said. Uiagalelei continued to st ruggle overthrowing receivers. He played for two-and-a-half quarters despite a sprained knee ligament that left him hobbling at the end of last week's win over Louisville. The sophmore did lead Clemson to touchdowns on his final two drives of the day, an 88-yard drive just before half that took 34 seconds and the opening drive of the third quarter, "I like how he finished," Tigers coach Dabo Swinney said. Receiver Dacari Collins said it isn't all Uiagalelei's fault. "From day one, we've got to do better catching the ball," he said.Clemson scored two touchdowns on its first eight drives. One score came on a fake field goal and the other as backup quarterback Taisun Phommachanh took over for four plays before leaving with what appeared to be a sho ulder injury. "There would have been a lot more opportunities for Taisun if he had been available," said Elliot, who also said that Uiagalelei is still "our guy." Uiagalelei averages nine carries a game, but rushed just once Saturday, a 1-yard sneak on 4 th-and-1 in the third quarter. It may have been another costly win for the Tigers, who at times have been without 18 scholarship players. - Clemson/AP College Football
(DS#7 QB) rSr/2025 QB DJ Uiagalelei, Florida State
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D.J. Uiagalelei picked a good night to have his best game of the season on Saturday, and Clemson's sophomore quarterback wasn't going to let a knee injury ruin it – or the Tigers' chances for a victory. Uiagalelei's 8-yard touchdown run with 4:12 left in the game propelled the Tigers to a 30-24 victory over Louisville. The sophomore quarterback also completed 18 of 30 passes for a season-high 220 yards and two scores in what was a war of attrition between the two schools. Both starting quarterbacks mi ssed time during the game due to injuries.Uiagalelei apparently sprained a posterior cruciate ligament in his right knee that forced him to miss time in the second quarter. But he returned for the Tigers final series of the first half, which ended with an 8-yard touchdown pass to Davis Allen and tied the game at 17. Injuries also struck Will Shipley and Kobe Pace, who entered the game as the top two rushers for the Tigers (6-3. 5-2 Atlantic Coast Conference). Pace left in the first quarter after entering the concussion protocol, while Shipley eventually returned. Clemson also overcame a goal-line stand by Louisville's defense in the third quarter. However, the Tigers took the lead for the first time - and for good - on a nine-play, 57-yard drive midway through the fourth quarter. As the team is positioning for a strong end to a season that won't end with a customary spot in the College Football Playoff, Uiagalelei said Saturday was a great way to start the final month of the regular season. "We 're hitting our stride right now," he said. "We're almost there." - Clemson/AP College Football
(DS#7 QB) rSr/2025 QB DJ Uiagalelei, Florida State
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DJ Uiagalelei passed for 181 yards and one touchdown, Kobe Pace rushed for 76 yards and another score, and Clemson held off Syracuse 17-14 on Friday night. Clemson (4-2, 3-1 Atlantic Coast Conference), coming off a bye week, played its first game as a te am not ranked by the AP since Nov. 22, 2014, a 28-0 win against Georgia State, and held on for the victory after Syracuse place-kicker Andre Szymt missed a 48-yard field goal attempt with 38 seconds left. Syracuse (3-4, 0-3) is in the same boat, but the Orange aren’t winning. They came into the game after consecutive ACC losses to Florida State and then-No. 19 Wake Forest that were decided on the final play of each game, and that seemed a possibility again on a night Orange tailback Sean Tucker contin ued his amazing season with 157 yards rushing on 22 carries. - Clemson/AP College Football
(DS#7 QB) rSr/2025 QB DJ Uiagalelei, Florida State
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Clemson tumbled to No. 25 in The Associated Press college football poll on Sunday, snapping its streak of 97 straight weeks in the top 10. The Tigers (2-2) lost for the second time this season Saturday - falling in double overtime to North Carolina State - and dropped 16 spots from No. 9 in the AP Top 25, which is presented by Regions Bank. Clemson's top-10 streak was tied with Alabama for the longest current run in college football and second-longest in the history of the AP poll, behind Miami's 137 fr om 1985-93.The Crimson Tide remained No. 1 with 58 first-place votes out of 62. No. 2 Georgia received the remaining four first-place votes. Oregon stayed No. 3. Penn State moved up two spots to No. 4, Iowa held at No. 5 and Oklahoma slipped two s pots to No. 6. Cincinnati moved up a spot to No. 7 and Arkansas jumped eight spots to No. 8 after beating Texas A&M. The Razorbacks have their best ranking since they were No. 8 early in the 2012 season. That season, Arkansas lost its second game of the season to Louisiana-Monroe and was never ranked again. The Razorbacks had finished fifth the season before under Bobby Petrino. No. 9 Notre Dame and Florida rounded out the top 10. - AP College Football
(DS#7 QB) rSr/2025 QB DJ Uiagalelei, Florida State
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Clemson will start the season as the No. 2 team in the USA Today college football coaches' poll. Alabama is the clear No. 1, receiving 63 of 65 first-place votes. Oklahoma, the No. 3 team in the poll, received the other two votes for first. Coastal Carol ina, coming off its best season in program history, is ranked 24th. The Tigers' appearance at No. 2 marks the sixth consecutive season they have debuted in the top 5, and they have been in the top 2 in five out of the last six seasons. This is Clemson's third debut at No. 2 in Along with Alabama, Clemson, Oklahoma, and Ohio State, the top 5 was rounded out by Georgia, officially making the Tigers and Bulldogs' Week 1 matchup in Charlotte, N.C., a battle of top 5 teams. - Charleston Post Courier
(DS#7 QB) rSr/2025 QB DJ Uiagalelei, Florida State
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Clemson sophomore quarterback D.J. Uiagalelei is a 2021 Heisman Trophy candidate because of performances in two strong starts when veteran star Trevor Lawrence was out with COVID-19 in 2020. The Southern Californian is also a quick study off the field. T hat was evident at the ACC Football Kickoff on July 22 when Uiagalelei was asked about his new Name, Image and Likeness deal with Bojangles. "California, we don't have Bojangles down there," Uiagalelei said during a press conference at the Westin Charlot te. "I remember one thing coming down here to the South, one thing I definitely learned is Jesus is No. 1 here. Then it goes football and then it's people love Bojangles."Uiagalelei and North Carolina quarterback Sam Howell have signed deals with Bojangles under the NCAA's new Name, Image and Likeness policy allowing players to cash in on endorsement deals. Bojangles, a fast-food company specializing in fried chicken and other Southern favorites, is based in Charlotte. Uigalelei was asked during the press conference if he might parlay his "Big Cinco" nickname tied to his jersey No. 5 into a $5 Bojangles meal deal. "That would definitely work," Uiagalelei said. "I'll have to talk to Bojangles about that." - Charleston Post Courier
(DS#7 QB) rSr/2025 QB DJ Uiagalelei, Florida State
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After the NCAA set its interim name, image and likeness policy on July 1, some college student-athletes immediately signed deals. Clemson quarterback D.J. Uiagalelei waited. Instead, he first signed an agent, VaynerSports. Less than a month later, Bojang les welcomed Uiagalelei to its team. Both he and North Carolina quarterback Sam Howell signed deals with the chicken franchise, announced on Wednesday. "College football is a huge passion point for Bojangles and our fans, so we are excited to be able to work with the athletes that make this sport so great," said Jackie Woodward, chief brand and marketing officer for Bojangles, via a press release. "These local stars have enjoyed our delicious food to fuel their athletic careers, and we're thrilled to of ficially be part of their journey."Uiagalelei confirmed the news with a 25-second Instagram video that featured Tigers offensive linemen Ryan Linthicum and Walker Parkers. The three are seated at a table sharing a meal with Parks feasting on what appears to be a chicken sandwich while Uiagalelei is pouring himself a cup of sweet tea. Before taking a sip, the sophomore quarterback compliments the company's consistency in the quality of food. "I'm excited to be one of the first college athletes to say 'It's Bo Time!'" Uiagalelei wrote in the caption. - The State
(DS#7 QB) rSr/2025 QB DJ Uiagalelei, Florida State
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Clemson quarterback D.J. Uiagalelei announced Friday that he has signed with VaynerSports. Uiagalelei's news comes a day after the NCAA's new interim name, image and likeness policy went into effect. There are seven known Clemson athletes who have announ ced NIL deals since then. Instead of signing a deal himself, however, the Tigers' starting quarterback opted to hire an agency, which is also covered in Clemson's NIL policies, released Wednesday night. VaynerSports is a branch of Vayner Media, a social and digital agency started by Gary Vaynerchuk and AJ Vaynerchuk in 2009.The company expanded and launched VaynerSports in 2016 "to create an offering that featured great contract advisory, superior service, innovative marketing (and) endorsements, and mentorship in the world of business, branding, social media, investing (and) sports," according to its website. VaynerSports represents athletes like Leonard Williams of the New York Giants as well as South Carolina native and NFL free agent Alshon Jeffery and the LA Dodgers' Justin Turner. - The State
(DS#7 QB) rSr/2025 QB DJ Uiagalelei, Florida State
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After a prime-time start to the season, Clemson football will have a pair of afternoon games as the Tigers learned kickoff times for the first three weeks of the 2021 season on Thursday. The Tigers open the season at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte for a highly-anticipated matchup against Georgia on Sept. 4 with a 7:30 p.m. start. That game will be on ABC. The Tigers' home opener will be 5 p.m. Sept. 11 against South Carolina State and carried on ACC Network. Clemson's ACC opener is set the followi ng week at home against Georgia Tech at 3:30 p.m. on ESPN or ABC. - The State
(DS#7 QB) rSr/2025 QB DJ Uiagalelei, Florida State
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The Clemson-Georgia football game scheduled for Sept. 4 will kick off at 7:30 p.m., ESPN announced. The game will air on ABC. The ACC/SEC showdown will be played at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte. The matchup represents the start of a six-game seri es the programs will play over the next 14 years. Coach Dabo Swinney's team enters the season as a national title contender after earning its sixth straight College Football Playoff bid last season. The Tigers lost star quarterback Trevor Lawrence to the NFL, but believe sophomore signal caller D.J. Uiagalelei can help to fill the void. Clemson returns all but two starters on defense. - Charleston Post Courier
(DS#7 QB) rSr/2025 QB DJ Uiagalelei, Florida State
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Clearly, Clemson already has an upgraded Uiagalelei (ooh-ee-AHN-guh-luh-lay), better than the guy who finished last season as Lawrence's understudy (5 touchdown passes, no interceptions, 914 yards passing in 10 games and two starts). Tyler Venables, a Cl emson sophomore safety and son of defensive coordinator Brent Venables, said Uiagalelei is quicker with passing reads since December. Also calmer in the pocket. "He basically came in here perfect, throwing-wise," Venables said. "Just unreal power on the ball and how far the can throw it, he's always had that. The mental side, he's always had. But he's continued to grow and be really able to read a defense." Uiagalelei will benefit from a Clemson defense that projects as one of the nation's best for 2021 , the program's best overall tight end talent and a stronger, healthier receiver group led by the return of potential NFL first-round pick Justyn Ross. - Charleston Post Courier
(DS#7 QB) rSr/2025 QB DJ Uiagalelei, Florida State
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Last week, D.J. Uiagalelei's phone buzzed with a text from a friend who was in Santa Monica, Calif., and needed a restaurant recommendation. Uiagalelei hails from nearby Bellflower. "I told him there's a really good seafood place out there," Uiagalelei s aid. The friend, it should be noted, was Trevor Lawrence, the former Clemson star quarterback and Uiagalalei's predecessor. The tip represented a role reversal for the two: Lawrence spent last season dispensing advice to Uiagalelei. But now the Tigers ar e Uiagalelei's team and the sophomore is intent on taking Clemson back to the College Football Playoff, while using Lawrence as a blueprint.That process started last week at the onset of spring practice. "The biggest thing I took was how he handl ed everything," Uiagalelei said. "How committed he is to being the best person on the field and off the field." Uiagalelei said he is pushing himself to be more of a vocal leader, though it is more in his nature to lead by example, as Lawrence did. Lawre nce was always on time, Uiagalelei said, and always completed his schoolwork. That's the standard Uiagalelei is working toward. "I want to be the most accountable guy on the team," he said. - Charleston Post Courier
(DS#7 QB) rSr/2025 QB DJ Uiagalelei, Florida State
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NOV 9 ACC ROOKIE OF THE WEEK: D.J. Uiagalelei, Clemson, Fr., Inland Empire, Calif.,...Completed 29-of-44 passes in Saturday night's double-overtime loss at Notre Dame for a career-high 439 yards with two passing touchdowns and a rushing touchdown in his second career start...His 439 passing yards were the third-most in a game in school history, breaking the school freshman record of 435 set by Deshaun Watson against North Carolina in 2014...Threw for the most yards against Notre Dame by any opposing qua rterback, breaking the previous mark of 425 set by USC's Carson Palmer in 2002. - Atlantic Coast Conference Football
(DS#7 QB) rSr/2025 QB DJ Uiagalelei, Florida State
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The jewelry and Bible verses around Uiagalelei's neck and wrists say as much as the stats do about this delightfully different 19-year-old. Uiagalelei offered a tour on Monday. The large "Big Cinco" medallion fits with the No. 5 jersey and goes back to h is high school days at St. John Bosco in Bellflower, Calif., 20 miles southeast of downtown Los Angeles. "Someone just called me Big Cinco," Uiagalelei said. "I just heard the name. I said, "Oh, I like that. That's pretty cool. That's like a different th ing." So Big Cinco started using #BigCinco in social media posts. The Big Cinco necklace got some play during ABC's telecast of the Boston College-Clemson game, in which Uiagalelei threw for 342 yards and two touchdowns. "I like wearing chains," he said. There's another No. 5 chain. The "T" chain honors his mother, Tausha. But this kid is more than a little glitz. - Charleston Post Courier
(DS#7 QB) rSr/2025 QB DJ Uiagalelei, Florida State
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The freshman only learned he'd be starting Thursday afternoon, but he looked poised and confident Saturday. He finished 30-of-41 passing for 342 yards and two touchdowns, and he opened the second half with a 30-yard touchdown run. The way he handled Clem son's first drive was particularly impressive. After the Eagles stormed down the field in four plays to score, Uiagalelei orchestrated a six-play, 65-yard drive capped by a smart throw to running back Travis Etienne against the blitz. Etienne sprinted in to the end zone for 35 yards. "He's incredibly poised," Swinney said. That's good news for the Tigers, who will need Uiagalelei to perform well next week in the big showdown with No. 4 Notre Dame. - Charleston Post Courier
(DS#7 QB) rSr/2025 QB DJ Uiagalelei, Florida State
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NOV 2 ACC ROOKIE OF THE WEEK: D.J. Uiagalelei, Clemson, Fr., Inland Empire, Calif.,...Made his first career start and completed 30-of-41 passes for 342 yards with two passing touchdowns and no interceptions and also rushed six times for 25 yards and a to uchdown in Saturday's win over Boston College...Led Clemson to the largest comeback in Memorial Stadium history (18 points)...Joined Deshaun Watson and Trevor Lawrence as the only true freshmen in Clemson history to win their starting debuts, and his 342 passing yards were the third most by a Clemson freshman (true or redshirt) in his starting debut. - ACC Football
(DS#7 QB) rSr/2025 QB DJ Uiagalelei, Florida State
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Freshman DJ Uiagalelei threw for 342 yards and two touchdowns in relief of Trevor Lawrence, home with COVID-19, and No. 1 Clemson rallied from 18-points down in the first half to defeat Boston College 34-28 on Saturday. Travis Etienne became the ACC's al l-time rushing leader and his second TD put the Tigers (7-0, 6-0 Atlantic Coast Conference) ahead for good. A jarring week for Clemson ended with its 28th straight win over league competition, 10th straight over the Eagles and 27th in a row at home. Clem son was missing several key players. Lawrence was out after testing positive for the virus and starting linebackers James Skalski and Mike Jones Jr. were missing because of injuries. The Eagles (4-3, 3-3) took advantage, putting Clemson in a 28-10 hole i n the second quarter with the virus-reduced crowd stunned to near silence. That's when Uiagalelei showed why he was a five-star prospect coveted by every college power and the heir apparent once Lawrence leaves for the NFL. Uiagalelei ran for a 30-yard T D on Clemson's opening third-quarter drive to begin the comeback, then threw an 8-yard scoring strike to Amari Rodgers that drew the Tigers within 28-26. Etienne, Clemson's other Heisman contender, put the Tigers in front for good with a 17-yard touchdow n run with 11:34 to go. - Clemson/AP College Football
(DS#7 QB) rSr/2025 QB DJ Uiagalelei, Florida State
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Clemson coach Dabo Swinney revealed following Saturday's 73-7 victory over Georgia Tech that both of Clemson's backup quarterbacks are dealing with injuries. D.J. Uiagalelei, Clemson's top backup QB, was held out of Saturday's game because he was sore, a ccording to Swinney. Uiagalelei was available, Swinney said, but Clemson didn't want to use him unless it had to. Swinney declined to say what specifically is sore for Uiagalelei. ESPN reported during the game that Uiagalelei is dealing with a sore shoul der. "I'm not gonna get into the specifics of anything other than he was sore," Swinney said postgame. "He got beat up a little bit in the game last week (against Miami). We just wanted to hold him." - The State
(DS#7 QB) rSr/2025 QB DJ Uiagalelei, Florida State
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The Tigers have gone to a jumbo package near the goal line to mix things up in recent years, but Clemson could call upon Uiagalelei - a quarterback - for a different look in 2020. Handing the ball to Etienne or letting Trevor Lawrence throw or run are gr eat options at the goal line, but Uiagalelei's size makes him unique. The 250-pound freshman QB rushed for a pair of touchdowns on Saturday, and Swinney hinted that we could see Uiagalelei called upon near the goal line during closer games in the future. "I'd say anything is possible," Swinney said. "He's 250 pounds. He's a big, strong man. But anything is possible, that's for sure." - The State
(DS#7 QB) rSr/2025 QB DJ Uiagalelei, Florida State
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As the top-ranked pro-style quarterback for the class of 2020, five-star prospect D.J. Uiagalelei had plenty of options in regards to where he would play college football. They included most of the top programs in the country, such as Alabama, Georgia, L SU, Ohio State and Clemson. The California native could have gone to a place where he would have had a good shot of earning the starting QB job as a true freshman. Instead, Uiagalelei did the opposite, going to a place where he knew he would have to wait his turn, barring an injury. But Uiagalelei views the chance to play behind Trevor Lawrence as a blessing and not a hindrance.The 6-foot-4, 250 pounder is learning everything he can from Lawrence in their one season together, before Lawrence leav es for the NFL. "For me, if there was a quarterback like Trevor, coming here and being able to learn from him, that's a bigger accomplishment than going into a place and starting Day 1," Uiagalelei said. "I'm right behind the best quarterback in the coun try and the best player. For me, I get to pick his brain and see how he does it and just learn from him." Uiagalelei compares his situation now to the one Aaron Rodgers was in when the Packers quarterback was playing behind Brett Favre early in his NFL c areer. - The State
(DS#7 QB) rSr/2025 QB DJ Uiagalelei, Florida State
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If Lawrence were to miss time, Clemson's backup quarterbacks have played 43 snaps combined. "We've gotta have guys ready to play," Swinney said. "We've got to get Hunter Helms ready as well. He was a preferred walk-on that came in here. So we've got to d evelop as much depth at that position and get as much experience at that position as we can." Uiagalelei is the biggest name of the group as a former five-star recruit and the top-ranked pro-style quarterback in the country. But Phommachanh has been in C lemson's system for a year and has improved by leaps and bounds from when he arrived on campus, by all accounts."Obviously Taisun got to play four games last year but still needs a lot of experience. D.J.'s just getting here. So we definitely hope to play as many of those guys as we can as often as we can," Swinney said. "I do know who our starter's going to be. If we get the opportunity to see who goes out there next then we'll see who ole coach Street runs out there." Uiagalelei has received pr aise since arriving on campus with Swinney saying in the spring that his arm talent "makes Trevor look kind of normal." - The State
(DS#7 QB) rSr/2025 QB DJ Uiagalelei, Florida State
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One of the most intriguing battles for Clemson entering fall camp was the backup quarterback job, and with the Tigers' season-opener at Wake Forest less than three weeks away, it remains an ongoing competition. Redshirt freshman Taisun Phommachanh and tr ue freshman D.J. Uiagalelei spent the past couple of weeks competing to see who will be the first guy off the bench behind Heisman favorite Trevor Lawrence. "Man, he's made huge strides in a year. Very talented," Swinney said. "They're different. They're similar in some regards and they're different as well. D.J., he's as advertised. A very, very gifted player. He's 250 pounds. He's just not a typical freshman coming in here. He has just really picked things up quickly. It's a heck of a competition and a great battle. They're both doing some really good things."Uiagalelei was rated as the No. 10 overall player in the country and the top pro-style QB for the class of 2020. Swinney said of Uiagalelei this spring that, "Sometimes he just kind of ma kes Trevor look normal with his ability to rip that football...never really seen a guy quite like him." Uiagalelei picked up where he left off when Clemson started fall camp. "He's so talented...super strong arm. He just is a good player, good instincts, even though he hasn't quite figured out all of the offense yet because he just got here," Lawrence said. "But he just is a good natural player, can run, make people miss, obviously he can escape, -do everything you really need from the quarterback posit ion." - The State
(DS#7 QB) rSr/2025 QB DJ Uiagalelei, Florida State
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College athletes would get a cut of the millions of dollars generated by the National Collegiate Athletic Association under proposed legislation announced Thursday by a group of Democratic senators. The "College Athletes Bill of Rights" would allow playe rs to earn money from marketing their names, Images and likenesses, and give them a share of the $15 billion intercollegiate sports industry. The proposal also would require standards for health and safety, take steps to ensure that athletes get a colle ge education and are able to graduate from their schools, help athletes pay their medical bills and other expenses incurred from sports-related injuries as well as any illnesses from the coronavirus, and remove penalties for athletes wishing to transfer to another school.It also provides for a panel of athletes, administrators and others to set rules for college sports. The proposal came as some colleges have abandoned plans to play intercollegiate sports this fall due to the pandemic. The Big Te n, Pac-12, and Big East all have canceled their fall seasons. The senators, who include Cory Booker, a former Stanford University football player, and Kamala Harris, running for vice president this fall, said they formally would introduce legislation lat er this year. - Star Ledger
(DS#7 QB) rSr/2025 QB DJ Uiagalelei, Florida State
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