CLEMSON, S.C. — Clemson is about to host Syracuse in a game that will mark the first matchup at Death Valley where both teams are at least 6-0 or better.
A big reason for the Tigers' fast start in 2022 has been the play of quarterback D.J. Uiagalelei who to this point of the season is playing like he did when he was thrust into action as a freshman when Trevor Lawrence missed two games in the 2020 season due to COVID.
But the 2021 season was one of adversity as injuries decimated the Tigers and that had an effect on the offense which never really found its rhythm. Clemson finished ninth in the ACC in scoring with an average of 26.3 points per game.
This season, Clemson is third in the league in scoring, averaging 38.6 points per game. North Carolina and Wake Forest are averaging 41.7 and 41.2 ppg, respectively.
Uiagalelei had that well-documented weight loss in the offseason where he dropped around 20 pounds and came into preseason camp determined to make the Tiger offense more productive.
“Last year was a tough year, but it made him better," said head coach Dabo Swinney.
"He’s got some gristle to him, you know? He’s seasoned. If you’re made of the right stuff, it makes you better. He’s definitely made of the right stuff.”
Uiagalelei will get another chance at a resume-building performance Saturday when the Tigers host #14 Syracuse at noon.