Clemson faces significant pressure heading into the upcoming season to re-enter the national championship conversation by performing well in ACC competition and securing a spot in the expanded College Football Playoff.
Critics are quick to dismiss the Tigers amid the new landscape of the transfer portal and NIL, particularly due to head coach Dabo Swinney’s steadfast adherence to his traditional coaching approach. This has led to Clemson making just one appearance in the ACC Championship Game over the past three years, despite their previous status as perennial contenders under Swinney’s leadership.
To reclaim their prominence in college football, Clemson is relying heavily on quarterback Cade Klubnik to fulfill the promise he showed as a five-star recruit upon joining the program. Klubnik assumed starting duties last season following DJ Uiagalelei’s transfer to Oregon State, but his debut year didn’t meet expectations.
He threw for 2,844 yards, 19 touchdowns, and nine interceptions, while also rushing for 182 yards and four scores. However, for Clemson to succeed, Klubnik must elevate his performance significantly in his junior season.
David Kenyon of Bleacher Report has identified Klubnik as a key candidate for a bounce-back season, highlighting his exceptional talent and mobility. Kenyon emphasizes the need for Klubnik to deliver more consistently, improve his decision-making, and increase his downfield passing efficiency after averaging 6.3 yards per attempt last season.
Klubnik’s success in the red zone and the Tigers’ improved receiving corps will also be crucial factors in enhancing his production. If Klubnik can maximize his potential, it could fundamentally change Clemson’s outlook and potentially secure their first College Football Playoff berth since the 2020-21 season.
