Cade Klubnik calls Tennessee 'a heck of a team'

Cade Klubnik and Clemson are readying for an Orange Bowl showdown with Tennessee, a matchup that easily could’ve happened in the College Football Playoff, as well.

Alas, it wasn’t meant to be for the Tigers and the Volunteers, but both will be looking to end their season on a high note. Speaking with the media ahead of the exciting game, Klubnik complimented the rejuvenated SEC program.

“Great matchup,” started Klubnik. “Tennessee’s a heck of a team. They’ve had an amazing year. I think it’ll be a great game. I think it’s a big game for us.

“Over the past couple of years, I think this will be a big game for us. At the same time, it’s just another game. Approach it the same we would any other. I’m super excited. It’ll be fun.”

Alas, the Orange Bowl featuring Clemson and Tennessee could be one of the best games of bowl season. Both teams will want a victory for some momentum going into next season — a season where they’ll both hope to get to the College Football Playoff.

Cade Klubnik discusses changes in mindset as starting QB

Cade Klubnik‘s mindset remained constant all season long – prepare like you’re the starter. Now that he’s been given the reigns as Clemson‘s starting quarterback, that notion remains true heading into bowl season.

“All the way back to the first game. Just preparing every week, late nights, early mornings. Obviously [being the starter] just goes up another level and I think that kind of started going into the UNC game,” Klubnik said after practice Wednesday. “My preparation doesn’t change, just the amount of intensity that I have in practice and off the field.”

Clemson’s fanbase had been clamoring for Klubnik to replace former starter DJ Uiagaleleifor a while. When head coach Dabo Swinney elected to make the QB chance after Uiagalelei threw just five passes in the ACC title game – including one incompletion on a simple out route that he threw right into the ground. 

It was time for a change, and Klubnik delivered. Completing 20 of his 24 passes, the true freshman threw for 279 yards and a touchdown while adding 30 more yards and another score on the ground. Now, the starting reps are his and the game is already slowing down for the former five-star freshman. 

“This week has kind of, I guess, made me realize I just need to settle in a little bit,” Klubnik said. “But it’s been fun, it’s been awesome. Just really a dream come true and just I’m super excited about this team. I think we got a real shot going into this game. … I’m just trying to be me. I’m not trying to change anything. 

“I’m just trying to be the guy that I was when I first got here on the first day. And I think if I just keep on doing that, we’ll do alright.”

Kickoff for the Capital One Orange Bowl vs. No. 6 Tennessee is set for Dec. 30 at 8 p.m. ET live from Hard Rock Stadium in Miami. ESPN will carry the national broadcast.

On3’s Barkley Truax contributed to this article.