Tim Reynolds of the Associated Press reported about 40 minutes before game time that Miami starting quarterback Tyler Van Dyke will not start on Saturday night versus Clemson. Van Dyke suffered a leg injury last week at North Carolina. The ACC Network showed a video of Emory Williams warming up in the pregame.
Williams has completed 12 passes in 15 attempts for 144 yards, no touchdowns or interceptions with two carries for a loss of 10 yards. Williams was a three-star signee in the 2024 Class out of Milton, Florida. At 6’5 and 220 pounds, Williams gives Miami a presence in the pocket. Williams has a similar skill set to Van Dyke.
Williams is a pro-style QB with a strong arm and excellent accuracy. Sophomore Jacurri Brown who started last season versus Clemson with Tyler Van Dyke out with a non-related injury could receive playing time on Saturday night in special packages. Brown is an athletic and physical runner.
Williams is athletic enough to be able to move out of the pocket when necessary. The Clemson defense provides a huge challenge, leading the ACC allowing 261.8 yards per game and 86.33 rushing yards per game, is third with opponents averaging 175.5 passing yards per game and fourth giving up 19.3 points per game.
In the first start of his collegiate career, Williams has one of the biggest challenges he will face as a college QB. Miami will have to supplement Williams with a strong running game. The Hurricanes are third in the ACC averaging 191.00 rushing yards per game. Miami has to take care of the ball versus Clemson.
The Hurricanes have had nine turnovers in the last two games. Van Dyke threw five interceptions and running backs Don Chaney Jr. and Henry Parrish each lost a fumble. Parrish is fifth in the ACC averaging 75.33 rushing yards per game and Chaney is 15th with 52.00 YPG. Chaney and Parrish will be critical versus Clemson.