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Football
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The University of Utah Athletics
Welcome Wednesday: QB & RB Newcomers
3/17/2021 6:17 PM | Football
Each week of spring football, UtahUtes.com will introduce newcomers from each position group, starting with the quarterbacks and running backs. This week, meet freshmen quarterbacks Ja'Quinden Jackson and Peter Costelli, along with junior running back TJ Pledger.
Q: What is your favorite aspect of playing the position that you do?
TP: My favorite aspect of being a running back is being able to touch the football as often as we do and being in the spotlight.
PC: I just find it fun. I also like throwing the ball a lot.
JJ: I get to touch the ball every play and it is very difficult, which is a great thing because I like a challenge.
Q: What do you love most about the sport of football?
TP: The relationships you build through football last a lifetime.
PC: I love the competitive aspect of the sport and the bonds you make with the team.
JJ: I love everything football offers. Everything about it hypes me up, from the fans to the grind of it.
Q: Who has influenced you most in your career and why?
TP: My family. They motivate me to keep going and reach my goals so that I will be in the position to help my family in the future.
PC: My dad has influenced me the most. He has taught me about football since I was little and has so many great stories about this days when he played football.
JJ: My family and myself along with the people I have lost in the past – they all keep me going.
Q: What was it about Utah that made you want to come here?
TP: The tradition at my position and the relationship I built with the offensive staff.
PC: It is a family here. It is also has great football energy, I love the coaches and I liked the school.
JJ: The opportunity to play and the coaches. The coaches know what they are doing and they are getting us ready for our future careers.
Q: What game are you most looking forward to in the fall?
TP: I am looking forward to playing USC in my hometown. It has always been a dream of mine to play in the Coliseum.
PC: I am looking forward to the BYU game because that is always a big rivalry. I am also looking forward to USC because I’m from California, so it will be fun to play them.
JJ: Every single game because I have people that can’t play the sport anymore, so I’m not taking any moments for granted. I’m playing for them and also because I haven’t played in a year, so I’m looking forward to it.
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