5 college football quarterbacks with something to prove in 2022

Can Clemson’s DJ Uiagalelei prove he should start?

Not many people are talking about Clemson as a national title contender in college football next season and the biggest reason for that is quarterback DJ Uiagalelei.

The former five-star recruit was a major disappointment last season as he took over for former No. 1 overall pick Trevor Lawrence. After throwing five touchdowns and zero interceptions in spot duty in 2020, Uiagalelei had issues as the full-time starter in 2021, throwing just nine touchdown passes compared to 10 interceptions. He also completed just 55 percent of his passes.

The 6-foot-4, 250-pounder who was ranked as the No. 10 overall prospect and No. 1 pro-style QB in 2020 by the 247 sports composite rankings, has a rocket arm. Accuracy has been his issue and that needs to improve next season.

Clemson should have one of the best defenses in college football, just like it had last season as it carried them to 10 wins, plus a really stout running game. The missing piece is the quarterback and if Uiagalelei struggles, five-star QB Cade Klubnik is waiting in the wings, and just like Lawrence, he seems ready to contribute right away.

For now, I have real doubts about Uiagalelei’s ability to hold onto the job for the 2022 college football season.