Cade Klubnik admits going to class at Clemson following losses is 'pretty tough'

The life of a college quarterback can be a difficult one. Clemson star Cade Klubnik knows all about the ups and downs that go with being one of the most high-profile people on campus.

He recently joined the Field Talk Podcast with ESPN’s Field Yates to discuss what it’s like on a week-in, week-out basis.

“Yeah, I mean I just feel like I’m another guy out there,” Klubnik said. “Hopefully that’s how other people kind of view me too. But obviously there’s stuff that comes with it.”

Part of what Cade Klubnik deals with is a product of the hype he had coming into Clemson. He was a five-star recruit, the No. 18 overall player in the country in his recruiting class.

There are certain expectations that go with a ranking like that.

And Klubnik’s career probably didn’t start out quite as hot as he would have liked. After playing a backup role to DJ Uiagalelei as a freshman in 2022, he took over as the starter in 2023.

It was an up-and-down year, to say the least. He finished with 2,844 yards passing and 19 touchdowns, but he threw nine interceptions. Clemson lost four games in the regular season.

So, yeah, Cade Klubnik knows about being on campus for the good times and the bad.

“We had first day of class today and taking roll call and I don’t have to introduce myself. You know, it’s just kind of how it is,” he said. “That’s kind of what comes with it. It’s really fun to show up to class and walk around campus and everything after a big win, but it’s also pretty tough after a loss. You’re not wanting to walk into class on that Monday when probably 95% of the people in the building know who you are.”

The pressure is immense. More than anyone on campus, Cade Klubnik feels it. The pressure to perform. The pressure to win.

Things can get ugly when it’s not going well. But he seems to be managing.

“That can be tough, too,” Klubnik said. “You’ve got to have a great circle around you that truly cares for you and the person you are.”