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Jonesboro alum Zerrick Cooper throws TD pass in debut for Clemson

Now that's how you start your college career.

Sep 2, 2017; Clemson, SC, USA; Clemson Tigers quarterback Zerrick Cooper (6) looks to pass the ball during the second half against the Kent State Golden Flashes at Clemson Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joshua S. Kelly-USA TODAY Sports

Clemson got out to a big lead against Kent State on Saturday, and it paved the way for some of the newest members of the Tigers to get playing time.

That included true freshman quarterback Zerrick Cooper. Cooper graduated from Jonesboro High School. He's a 4-star quarterback, according to Rivals, and was the No. 8 quarterback in the class of 2017.

Cooper entered the game late, and he completed four passes on six attempts for 37 yards. One of his passes was a touchdown to Cornell Powell.

"I always stay engaged in the game. Never know when the opportunity will come," Cooper told reporters after the game. "We kept the foot on the gas. I mean, [Powell's] one of the fastest guys on the team. He got opened like that, I encouraged him to take that."

Kelly Bryant started for the Tigers. Bryant replaces Deshaun Watson, who led the Tigers to a national title last season. Watson, a Gainesville High School alum, was drafted to the Houston Texans.

Cooper said the quarterback competition isn't necessarily still on, but he will do everything he can to take advantage of the opportunities that come his way.

Clemson went on to win 56-3 to open the season 1-0.

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