Dabo Swinney explains why Clemson did not change QBs to Cade Klubnik

The Clemson Tigers and head coach Dabo Swinney were stunned on Saturday by their in-state rivals, the South Carolina Gamecocks. Heading into the half, Clemson was in control of the game leading by nine, 23-14. But in the second half, the Tigers’ offense struggled, putting up just seven points, aiding in their 31-30 defeat. With their struggles in the second half, some wondered why Clemson didn’t opt to bring in freshman quarterback Cade Klubnik to provide a boost with the offense struggling with DJ Uiagalelei at the helm. According to Swinney, it was an option, but it was never implemented.

“We thought about it, but he felt like he was OK. We stuck with him,” said Swinney.

Uaigalelei struggled against South Carolina’s defense. And those struggles were only amplified after the Tigers quarterback injured himself on a quarterback run in the third quarter. Uiagalelei ended the game, completing just eight of his 29 pass attempts for 99 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. He also had 12 rushes for 51 yards and a touchdown. Not only did Swinney and the offensive coaching staff decide not to substitute Klubnik in, but they also did not play him at all in the game.

Clemson’s College Football Playoff chances have likely ended with this loss. However, they still have the ACC championship game coming up against North Carolina. If the Tigers want to finish off the year as ACC champs, Swinney and his coaching staff must come up with a plan at quarterback, especially if Uiagalelei is still hampered with an injury.

Early betting line for ACC Championship Game between Clemson, North Carolina is set

The early betting line for the ACC Championship Game is out and Clemson will enter as a double-digit favorite over North Carolina despite both programs stumbling at the end of the regular season.

The Tigers enter the game as a 10-point favorite, according to consensus betting lines listed at VegasInsider.com.

The ACC saw its playoff chances go up in smoke over the last couple weeks with Clemson and North Carolina unable to sustain their momentum to the finish line. With the early betting lines set for the ACC Championship Game, all eyes turn toward the matchup. There is still a New Year’s Six bowl berth on the line.

The conference champion from the ACC will play in the Orange Bowl on Dec. 30.

To that end, there’s plenty to play for in the ACC Championship Game next weekend. The 2022 Subway Atlantic Coast Conference Football Championship Game will kick off at 8 p.m. ET on Dec. 3 at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, N.C.

The game will be broadcast nationally on ABC.