Billy Wiles is the starting quarterback for the Southern Miss Golden Eagles, but his journey to this position was not a typical one. Wiles, who transferred from Clemson in December 2023, had to overcome several challenges and make some tough decisions along the way. Here is his story of how he became a college football starter.
A walk-on at Clemson
Wiles was a star quarterback at Stone Bridge High School in Ashburn, Virginia, where he led his team to a state title in the spring of 2021. His final throw of his prep career was a 16-yard walk-off touchdown pass in overtime to defeat Highland Springs for the state championship.
However, despite his impressive performance, Wiles did not receive any scholarship offers from Division I programs. He decided to join Clemson as a walk-on in 2021, hoping to earn a spot on the roster and eventually a scholarship.
Wiles did not see any game action in his first season at Clemson, but he impressed the coaches with his work ethic and attitude. He was placed on scholarship for 2022 and became the third-string quarterback behind starter DJ Uiagalelei and backup Cade Klubnik.
A touchdown pass for Dabo Swinney
Wiles made his Clemson debut on Nov. 13, 2021, against UConn, when he entered the game in the fourth quarter with the Tigers leading 44-7. He completed 2-of-4 passes for 31 yards, including a 25-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Ajou Ajou.
The touchdown pass was not only Wiles’ first career completion, but also a special gift for head coach Dabo Swinney, who was celebrating his 52nd birthday that day. Swinney hugged Wiles on the sideline and praised him for his perseverance.
“That was awesome,” Swinney said after the game. “He’s a great young man. He’s worked really hard. He’s been very patient. He’s been very committed. He’s been very loyal. H’s just a great teammate.”
A transfer to Southern Miss
Despite his memorable moment at Clemson, Wiles knew that his chances of playing time were slim with Uiagalelei and Klubnik ahead of him on the depth chart. He decided to enter the NCAA Transfer Portal in early December 2023, looking for a new opportunity.
Wiles received interest from several schools, but he chose Southern Miss after talking to head coach Will Hall and offensive coordinator Matt Kubik. He liked their offensive system and their vision for him as a leader.
“They told me they were looking for a guy who could come in and compete right away and be the guy,” Wiles said. “They told me they liked my skill set and how I fit their offense. They told me they liked my character and how I could help change the culture here.”
Wiles enrolled at Southern Miss in January 2023 and participated in spring practice. He competed with Houston transfer Holman Edwards for the starting job and won it by the end of fall camp.
A starter for the Golden Eagles
Wiles made his first start for Southern Miss on Sept. 2, 2023, against Alcorn State. He completed 15-of-23 passes for 183 yards and two touchdowns, leading the Golden Eagles to a 35-10 win.
Wiles said he felt comfortable and confident in his debut, thanks to his preparation and his teammates.
“I felt like I had a good grasp of the offense and what we were trying to do,” Wiles said. “I felt like I had good chemistry with the receivers and the offensive line. I felt like we executed well as a unit.”
Wiles has started three games so far for Southern Miss, throwing for 421 yards, three touchdowns and two interceptions. He has also shown his mobility, rushing for 74 yards and a touchdown.
Wiles said he is enjoying his experience at Southern Miss and is grateful for the opportunity.
“I love it here,” Wiles said. “I love the coaches, I love the players, I love the fans. I feel like I belong here. I feel like this is where I’m supposed to be.”
