Cade Klubnik says Clemson quarterback room is 'a blast'

Cade Klubnik is comfortably in place as the Clemson starting quarterback after beating out DJ Uiagalelei at the tail end of 2022. And as Klubnik has taken over the mantle of being the starting quarterback, he’s loved working in Clemson’s quarterback room.

From freshman Chris Vizzina to seasoned veterans like Hunter Helms, Klubnik had great things to say about every QB in the room. And new offensive coordinator Garrett Riley is clicking, too.

“It’s been so fun. I just love the room right now. Just so much joy, it’s so fun. With coach Riley and CV and Hunter and Paul [Tyson] and Trent [Pearman], it’s a blast right now,” Klubnik said. “We’re just out here playing ball and just having fun. Getting work every day, it’s so fun.”

Klubnik appeared in 10 games for the Tigers in 2022 but didn’t catch on as the starter until the ACC championship game. In outings against North Carolina and Tennessee, Klubnik showed the promise he brings and why he was a touted recruit, but also plenty of room for growth.

Against the Tar Heels, Klubnik was sharp, going 20-for-24 for 279 yards and a touchdown while adding 30 rushing yards and another touchdown on the ground. Behind his performance and a strong defensive effort, the Tigers won the ACC championship game.

Against the Volunteers, though, Klubnik offered a reminder that he was a freshman. He went 30-for-54 through the air for 320 yards and two interceptions. He did add a rushing touchdown, but on 20 carries (sacks included) he had 51 yards.

Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney evaluated Klubnik’s progress during spring

Dabo Swinney was encouraged by Klubnik’s progress during spring practice.

“He made some great off-schedule plays and extended plays,” Swinney said. “I mean, that’s what you love. That’s what I love to see. The rest of it will come together when it needs to be, you know, a couple of tough breaks. I mean, it was a great play by Nate. I mean, the ball is right on the money. And it’s, you know, we’ve kind of played a little short and at worst it needs to be incomplete. But we were kind of tight to the body and Nate reached around tupped it and those are supposed to be picks, you know …  

“But he did a heck of a job and what you love about him is, man he can extend. I mean, he can really turn you know 2.8 seconds in eight, nine seconds. It’s just hard … But he’s had a great spring for sure. A really, really good spring. And I’m just pleased with what we’ve been able to get in and so yeah, as being incomplete, yes, we know that but we still have been able to get everything installed. We’ve still been able to lay a good foundation. And now it’s going to come together nicely. I really believe that.”