Klubnik Says Offensive Line Playing With 'Fire in Heart'

Throughout the spring, summer and fall camp, Cade Klubnik has seen a lot of growth from the Clemson offense.

The Tigers were young in a lot of spots a year ago and the junior quarterback fully believes the experience of last season will help the offense take the necessary jump in 2024.

“I think we’ve had a really good mindset more than anything,” said Klubnik. “First of all we were a really young team last year. It’s a team that is just a lot smarter on offense.”

Where Klubnik has seen some of the most progress is along the offensive line, with the quarterback noting the impact the hiring of Matt Luke’s had on the group.

“I’ve seen a group of guys just going to work every day,” Klubnik said. “With a fire in their heart. A fire to go get better every single day. And I think that this season they are going to show the hard work they have been putting in. That’s really what it comes down to.”

The Tigers struggled with consistency a season ago, which at times led to shaky pass protection up front, as Clemson allowed 29 sacks in 2023.

However, now Klubnik is seeing a different kind of mindset from the Tigers’ offensive linemen. The signal caller has seen Tristan Leigh, Blake Miller and Marcus Tate grow into the type of  leaders that has allowed the entire offense to benefit from better cohesiveness.

“Just really proud of how vocal they are,” Klubnik added. “Marcus and Tristan and Blake, I think those three have really stepped up a lot vocally. When I need them, just the relationship that we all have has really stepped up a ton this year.”

A limited number of signed footballs from Clemson’s 2022 class are still available. Get yours while supplies last! Visit Clemson Variety & Frame or purchase online!