ACC Week 3: The Tale of 3 Transfer Quarterbacks

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After Week 1, we took a look at transfer quarterbacks in the Atlantic Coast Conference and how they seamlessly stepped into new roles at their respective schools. Through three weeks, three quarterbacks have emerged as prime examples of how transferring can result in a variety of outcomes: Cam Ward, DJ Uiagalelei and Eli Holstein. Each has taken a unique path, but their stories converge on the theme of seeking new opportunities and facing different challenges.

Cam Ward, Miami: Early Heisman Favorite

In Miami's (3-0) recent victory against Ball State (1-1), Ward completed 19 passes on 28 attempts, throwing for 346 yards and 5 touchdowns. Miami went on to defeat the Cardinals 62-0. Through three games this season, Ward has 11 touchdown passes, just 1 interception and 1,035 passing yards on 65-of-89 passing. His chemistry with the Hurricanes' talented receiving corps has been evident. Wide receivers Xavier Restrepo, Jacolby George, and Isaiah Horton are among his top targets.

Coming into this season, the biggest question that the senior from West Columbia, Texas, faced concerned Miami's pro-style offense. That is opposed to the air-raid system that he was used to at Washington State (3-0).

The system has played to his strengths better than many have thought it would. As a result, Ward is currently the betting favorite to win the Heisman Trophy. Right now, he's edging out notable names such as Arch Manning of Texas (3-0) and Jalen Milroe of Alabama (3-0).

Ward will face tougher tests as the season progresses, but so far, no one can dispute how well he's transitioned into his new role.

DJ Uiagalelei, Florida State: A Forgettable Start

DJ Uiagalelei’s transfer from Oregon State to Florida State (0-3) was met with questions about his completion percentage, which was just 59 percent coming into this season. His rocky start in Tallahassee. Fla., has not assuaged these doubts. Uiagalelei has struggled to find his rhythm in Florida State’s offense, and the Seminoles have had a disastrous start to the season.

In his team's recent 20-12 loss on Sept. 14 to Memphis (3-0), Uiagalelei was just 16-of-30 with no touchdown passes and 1 interception. On the season, he has only 1 touchdown pass to wide receiver Kentron Poitier.

The transition to a new team and system has been challenging for Uiagalelei. While his physical tools are undeniable, the mental aspect of the game has proven to be a hurdle.

In its next game, Florida State faces an upstart California (3-0) team. Although the Seminoles are the current favorites, much of the nation will undoubtedly be expecting Florida State to continue its surprising freefall. Cal's defense, which has nine interceptions already this season, will be a tough test for Uiagalelei. He has a chance to show the Seminoles why they can put their faith in him if he puts together a good performance.

The pressure to perform at a high level in a storied program like Florida State can be overwhelming. Uiagalelei’s struggles have highlighted the difficulties that can come with transferring to a new team.

Eli Holstein, Pitt: Clutch Under Pressure

Eli Holstein’s journey from Alabama to Pitt (3-0) has been marked by his knack for delivering in clutch moments.

Holstein, who transferred to Pitt seeking more playing time, has quickly become the Panthers’ go-to guy in critical situations. In Week 2, he helped his team to their largest comeback since 1971, erasing a 21-point deficit to beat the Cincinnati Bearcats (2-1) 28-27. In that game, Holstein took charge, throwing for touchdowns on 3 consecutive drives in the second half.

In Week 3's matchup against historic rival West Virginia, Holstein led his team on 2 touchdown drives with under 5 minutes to go in the fourth quarter to erase at 10-point deficit and win 38-34. In addition to his passing prowess, Holstein broke off several key runs in the closing minutes of the game, further demonstrating his danger to opposing defenses.

For his performance against West Virginia, he was named to the Davey O'Brien Award Great 8, a list honoring the greatest quarterbacks in the country week by week.

ACC Play Remains A Test

While Holstein may not currently be in the Heisman conversation like Ward, his contributions to Pitt’s offense cannot be understated. As the season unfolds, Holstein’s performances will be crucial for Pitt’s aspirations in the ACC.

The stories of Ward, Uiagalelei and Holstein underscore the complexities and opportunities that come with being a transfer quarterback. Each has faced different challenges and found varying degrees of success, but their journeys highlight the hotly-debated impact of the Transfer Portal on college football.