College Football: Top spring 2022 QB battles, Part 2

1. Clemson: D.J. Uiagalelei vs. Cade Klubnik

This quarterback battle is about D.J.’s ability to ward off the young upstart Klubnik. These battles are the type that elite teams have. You cannot unsee how bad Uiagalelei was at times last season. However, D.J. has the tools. Klubnik has come to town and impressed so far.

Can the incumbent keep the young upstart at bay?

The case for D.J. Uiagalelei

There was a time when he and Alabama quarterback Bryce Young competed for who was the top quarterback in the country during their senior year in high school. Uiagalelei was not the only reason the offense performed poorly, either. The skill positions had injury and scheme fit issues, and the offensive line underperformed.

The case for Cade Klubnik

After being smothered 24-6 by Alabama in the National Semi-Final in 2017, freshman quarterback Trevor Lawrence wrestled the job away from incumbent Kelly Bryant. Though D.J. did not have Bryant’s success, Lawrence was the guy to lead Clemson to a National Title. That sentiment could be the case for Klubnik.

What should the Tigers do?

By all accounts, Uiagalelei has dropped serious weight and has looked good. Klubnik has been impressive during the spring despite being physically underdeveloped. Head coach Dabo Swiney and offensive coordinator Brandon Streeter want to see who can take the job.