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UConn Huskies: Edsall names David Pindell starting QB

By Logan Jakubajtys

EAST HARTFORD, CT - NOVEMBER 27: Head coach Randy Edsall of the Connecticut Huskies directs his players in the fourth quarter against the Cincinnati Bearcats on November 27, 2010 at Rentschler Field in East Hartford, Connecticut. The Huskies defeated the Bearcats 38-17. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
EAST HARTFORD, CT - NOVEMBER 27: Head coach Randy Edsall of the Connecticut Huskies directs his players in the fourth quarter against the Cincinnati Bearcats on November 27, 2010 at Rentschler Field in East Hartford, Connecticut. The Huskies defeated the Bearcats 38-17. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) /
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UConn Huskies head coach Randy Edsall has named his starting quarterback for 2017, and it will be junior transfer David Pindell.

When the UConn Huskies take the field for their first game against Holy Cross on August 31st, junior David Pindell will be their quarterback.

Huskies head coach Randy Edsall made the announcement on Sunday before the team’s practice.

There was no big spectacle, no show. It was simply a matter of fact statement from the head coach naming his starter to begin the season.

"“David Pindell is going to our quarterback, he is the starter.”"

Pindell had been in competition with Bryant Shirreffs, who started 21 games over the last two seasons, and Brandon Bisack. Donovan Williams started the final three games for UConn last season, but he was able to sense the competition and where he stacked up at QB, so he asked to move to wide receiver.

Last season, Pindell was the starter at Lackawanna College, a junior college in Scranton, PA. He threw for 2,424 yards with 31 touchdowns and 7 interceptions on the year. Pindell was also able to make plays on the ground, with 459 rushing yards and 8 scores. Lackawanna ran a system that is similar to the one new UConn offense coordinator Rhett Lashlee is putting in place. The offense will be fast-paced and will revolve around a no-huddle.

"“Just saw the way he came in and handled the offense,” Edsall said. “He still has work to do as they all do. It was time, we have seen things. We sat down with the offensive staff and talked with them and evaluated all the things we have seen. He is a relatively quiet young man who is very prideful, he wants to be the best he can. He is a very diligent guy, he is a guy who will spend time on the field, in the meeting room doing the things necessary that it takes to be a quarterback.”"

Announcing Pindell as the starter now will allow Lashlee and Edsall to tailor their offensive gameplan for him. There are some plays that the team may be able to run with him behind center, that they can’t run with other quarterbacks.

Pindell also seems to have the support of his teammates.

"More from Chowder and Champions3 Midseason Chaim Bloom Decisions That Have Killed the 2023 Red Sox10 Patriots Who Will Be Cut by Tuesday’s Roster DeadlineMLB Screws Red Sox Fans With Broadcast for Mookie Betts Return3 Most Underpaid Celtics Heading Into the 2023 SeasonRed Sox Continue Rollercoaster Season With Massive Win“David is a really smart guy,” senior running back Arkeel Newsome said. “He’s quick on his feet. He keeps plays alive. I can’t wait to see him out there on the field.”"

Sophomore left tackle Matt Peart echoed support for Pindell as well.

"“David stepped up. He’s been here 21/2 weeks, roughly, and for him to take in all that he has to take in as a quarterback is impressive. He wants to lead the team. I believe he can.”"

UConn’s season will begin on August 31st at Rentschler Field in East Hartford. After that, the Huskies will take on the USF Bulls, also at home.

Next: UConn Huskies: 2017 football preview

Edsall and Lashlee are looking to restore some pride into the UConn Huskies program with a new-look offense. Hopefully, they’ll be able to win 6 games and become bowl eligible once again.

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