Klubnik Takes 'Great Step' in Off-Season

The way Phil Mafah sees it, he already sees a different Cade Klubnik.

The relationship between the two has always been a good one, but to get to where they want to go this season, which is to take Clemson back to the College Football Playoff, the backfield mates had to grow as leaders.

Clemson fans are hoping Klubnik and Mafah can become a dynamic duo in the backfield like it has had in the past with guys like Deshaun Watson and Wayne Gallman or Trevor Lawrence and Travis Etienne.

Those four guys combined to win Clemson two national championships and play for the title two other times in five years.

Of course, it all starts with Klubnik, who is getting set to head into his second season as Clemson’s quarterback. Last year went okay, but there were a lot of ups and down in a 9-4 season, which he capped off by leading the Tigers from two scores down to beat Kentucky in the Gator Bowl.

“I think the first thing would be obviously getting to be in the same system again. I think being able to know the offense, I mean, it almost feels like the longer you’re in a system, you know how to get through progressions faster, cancel out yes, no, pre-snap progressions, knowing when you’re hot off of blitzes, knowing the protections better,” Klubnik said. “That obviously comes with getting the ball out of my hand quicker. Less interceptions, less sacks, being able to make big-time plays with either my legs or throwing the ball downfield.”

It’s also about being able to lead men, something Mafah sees a big difference in from Klubnik.

“He cares about this team so much. He’s taken a great step this off-season just to get closer to the guys, help to bring unity within the offense and defense,” the Clemson running back said. “He stepped up as a vocal leader, as a field general out there. I’m really proud of him.

“I can see the offense doing really well this year because of the guys that came back. We got a lot of guys back. Got a new center. It’s his fourth year, so he knows what to do. I’m pretty confident in our offense.”

And it is helping Klubnik become a better quarterback in the process.

“I look back at last season, throughout the year, being a full-time starter for a full year, I learned how to actually manage a game in a really efficient way. I think that’s one thing I got better at throughout the season.

“One thing I want to start off with really quickly in week one, just continue to get better at. That’s been great. Honestly just leading, just using my voice and pushing guys. Just building as great of a camaraderie as I can build with my teammates, with my O-line, receivers, running backs, tight ends. Just trying to be the best leader that I can be.”

Clemson opens fall camp on Thursday, as it begins preparation for its season opener vs. Georgia in the Chick-fil-A Kickoff Classic in Atlanta on Aug. 31.