Dabo Swinney compares DJ Uiagalelei to Steph Curry: ‘Sometimes the ball doesn’t go in the basket’

Dabo Swinney used an interesting analogy when comparing the switch up he made at quarterback in No. 5 Clemson’s 27-21 comeback victory at No. 14 Syracuse.

Clemson pulled starting quarterback DJ Uiagalelei in favor of backup Cade Klubnik and overcame a 21-7 deficit in the second quarter to prevail for the victory. Clemson scored the last 20 points of the game to hand Syracuse its first loss of the season.

Uiagalelei threw two interceptions and had a fumble that resulted in a 90-yard return for a touchdown prior to being benched. Klubnik came in guided Clemson to two touchdown drives in the fourth quarter to complete Clemson’s comeback.

Swinney likened Uiagalelei’s struggles to when the greatest NBA 3-point shooter of all time has an off-game, referencing Golden State Warriors 4-time champion Steph Curry.

“It was just one of them days,” Swinney said. “DJ’s been awesome all year, but sometimes the ball doesn’t go in the basket.”

 

A broad comparison, but the premise about seeking a spark is understandable.

Swinney confirmed after the victory that Uiagalelei will remain the starting quarterback.

Next up for Clemson is a road contest at Notre Dame on Nov. 5. The contest is slated for 7:30 p.m. ET and will be televised on NBC.