Tait Reynolds is about to make his first start at quarterback for Clemson, and Dabo Swinney believes the true freshman brings a rare physical package to the position.
During his Tuesday press conference, Swinney was asked whether Reynolds reminded him of another quarterback from a physical standpoint. His answer eventually led to former Florida star and Heisman Trophy winner Tim Tebow.
“I hate to even say it, but I recruited Tebow – so physically, he’s just gifted like that,” Swinney said. “And Tebow was a multi-sport star, and Tim was a very, very tough, gritty competitor.”
Swinney wasn’t predicting that Reynolds will become the next Tebow. He was simply pointing to the similarities in size, athleticism and running ability.
“I’m not saying he’s
Tim Tebow – please don’t say that and write that. … I’m just saying he’s physically gifted like that,” Swinney said.
Reynolds has a strong multi-sport background of his own. The 6-foot-2, 215-pound freshman was once committed to Arizona State for baseball before his future shifted toward football.
Clemson got its first extended look at Reynolds last Saturday after Christopher Vizzina left the Georgia Southern game with an injury. Reynolds completed 16 of 27 passes for 178 yards and added 38 rushing yards on 14 carries in the Tigers’ 22-7 victory.
Swinney named Reynolds the starter for Saturday’s game against North Carolina shortly afterward.
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Former Tigers’ quarterback Tajh Boyd also came to mind when Swinney discussed Reynolds’ potential as a runner.
“Tait has the ability, as the game slows down for him, to be a runner with some swagger,” Swinney said.
Swinney knows there will be growing pains with a freshman quarterback, but his expectations for Reynolds remain high.
“He’s going to make some mistakes,” Swinney said. “We’re going to grow with him. But I think we’ve got a special kid. I think we’ve got a special player.”
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This article originally appeared on Clemson Wire: Dabo Swinney makes wild comparison for Clemson freshman quarterback
