Clemson QB DJ Uiagalelei entering Heisman conversation
Clemson quarterback DJ Uiagalelei was considered one of the Heisman favorites entering his sophomore season in 2021.
While that year didn’t go as planned, Uiagalelei has looked like a legit Heisman contender so far this season.
The junior has accounted for 17 total touchdowns and 2 interceptions through six games, while averaging 295.5 yards of total offense per game.
Uiagalelei currently has Clemson undefeated and ranked No. 4. Sportsbooks are taking notice.
The California is tied for the eighth-best Heisman odds, according to DraftKings. Ohio State quarterback CJ Stroud is currently the favorite to win the award.
Clemson offensive coordinator Brandon Streeter recently said that Uiagalelei is “absolutely” one of the best quarterbacks in the country. It’s hard to argue with Streeter based on the way Uiagalelei has played in 2022.
“I think his confidence has taken him to another level. This is who he is,” Streeter said. “I mean this is the guy that we recruited. This is the guy that has just a ton of heart and passion for the game. He just continues to work his tail off. He’s never compromised his work. So just really pleased with where he’s at.”
DJ Uiagalelei gets another opportunity to impress in primetime this weekend against FSU.
He has already played well against two ACC contenders in Wake Forest and NC State — teams that are currently ranked in the top 15.
Now he’ll get another chance to impress on the national stage Saturday night in Tallahassee. The game will be televised nationally by ABC.
“Florida State, it’s a historical program. They’ve had a lot of rich tradition down there,” Uiagalelei said. “I’ve never gotten to play there, so it’s going to be exciting. I’ve never been to a game in person. I’ve always heard it’s so loud. … I’m excited to play down there.”
If Uiagalelei can lead Clemson to a win against the Seminoles, the Tigers would be in a great spot as far as their chances of winning the ACC and returning to the College Football Playoff.
Uiagalelei could also become a true Heisman contender if he leads Clemson to a win and puts up big numbers in the process.
For now, Streeter insists Clemson isn’t thinking about that, though.
“I don’t care about stats one bit but one of them, and that’s winning. That’s the only stat we care about,” Streeter said. “Things like [the Heisman] will take care of themselves. I know we haven’t even thought about that at all, but he’s going to stay locked in and continue to find ways to win for his teammates.”