The 5 Best Quarterbacks in Clemson Football History
By Ben Greeson
4. Rodney Williams (85′-88′)
When his career ended at Clemson, this Columbia native was the winningest quarterback in Clemson history. Head coach Danny Ford inserted Williams into the line up as a true freshman in 1985, splitting time with then Clemson football quarterback Randy Anderson.
The stat line that Williams produced will not blow you away. The wins, the game management, and his leadership is what placed Williams on this list. The mid-80’s were a crucial time in Clemson football history. Coming off of a probation handed down by the NCAA, the Tigers were limited by scholarship restrictions and television appearances. Enter Rodney Williams.
His freshman year, he helped lead the Tigers to a 6-6 finish. In 1986 the Tigers improved to 8-2-2. Ties against Maryland and South Carolina in back to back weeks seemed to fuel the Tigers signal caller. He led Clemson on an impressive bowl win streak after the 86′ regular season as the Tigers defeated Stanford 27-21 in the Gator Bowl.
Williams would go on to collect bowl wins against national powers Penn State and his last game as a Tiger was a Citrus Bowl win versus Oklahoma.
Williams finished his career with 32 wins under his belt, 4647yds passing, 863yds rushing and 28 total touchdowns. He finished his career 2-1-1 versus instate rival South Carolina and was a 3-1 in bowl games.
Rodney Williams was instrumental in the Tigers resurgence into the national spotlight after a few years under the dark cloak of probation. Had it not been for this game manager, the captain of the boat that was led by a stout defense and a physical running game, there is no telling where the Clemson football program may have slipped to.
That is why Rodney Williams, now the color commentary voice of the Tigers, is my number four Tiger quarterback of all time.
Next: No. 3