The upcoming College Football Playoff matchup between **Texas** and **Clemson** not only marks a first-time meeting between the two storied programs but also a personal rematch between quarterbacks **Quinn Ewers** and **Cade Klubnik**.
Their history dates back to Texas high school football, including the 2021 **6A Division 2 State Championship**, where Klubnik’s **Austin Westlake** defeated Ewers’ **Southlake Carroll** 52-34 in a high-profile showdown dubbed the *Dodge Bowl* due to the connection between their head coaches.
Klubnik, who shined in that game, also shares deep ties with Texas safety **Michael Taaffe**, adding another layer of familiarity to the matchup.
While Texas enters the playoff as the No. 5 seed, Clemson’s journey has been marked by changes both on and off the field. Head coach **Dabo Swinney**, long resistant to the transfer portal, made a significant shift by landing JUCO wide receiver **Tristan Smith**—the Tigers’ first skill-position portal addition.
Smith’s impressive 2023 season at **SEMO** (76 receptions, 934 yards, 6 touchdowns) addresses Clemson’s need for a reliable playmaker, as the Tigers haven’t produced a 1,000-yard receiver since **Amari Rodgers** in 2020.
Swinney’s evolving stance, including his vocal support for a revenue-sharing model, reflects his willingness to adapt to modern college football dynamics.
This could signal a new era for Clemson as they look to reestablish themselves among the nation’s elite programs. As Klubnik prepares for another battle with Ewers, Clemson’s ability to adapt may prove critical to their success on the playoff stage.
