Are Cade Klubnik and Drew Allar Heisman Front-Runners? One Analyst Seems To Think So

Walker’s argument centers on Klubnik’s transformation into one of the nation’s top quarterbacks and Heisman hopefuls. In 2022, as a true freshman, Klubnik appeared in 10 games for Clemson, completing 61 of 100 passes for 697 yards, two touchdowns, and three interceptions, with a completion percentage of 61.0%. His Total QBR was a modest 50.2, reflecting limited experience and inconsistent play. By 2024, however, Cade Klubnik had emerged as a cornerstone of Clemson’s offense.

He completed 308 of 486 passes (63.4%) for 3,639 yards, 36 touchdowns, and six interceptions. His Total QBR jumped to 82.1, showcasing improved efficiency and decision-making.

Klubnik’s ability to push the ball downfield stood out, as he recorded the third-most completions in the FBS on passes traveling at least 20 yards (16 touchdowns, three interceptions on such throws). Additionally, his 463 rushing yards and seven rushing touchdowns highlighted his dual-threat capability, a significant leap from his 139 rushing yards as a freshman.

Walker noted that Klubnik’s experience, now approaching 40 starts, combined with returning receivers like Antonio Williams and T.J. Moore, positions him for a potential Heisman-caliber season.

Similarly, Walker pointed to Drew Allar’s steady progression at Penn State as evidence of his readiness for a breakout 2025. In 2022, Drew Allar, also a freshman, played sparingly, completing 35 of 60 passes for 344 yards, four touchdowns, and zero interceptions across seven games, with a Total QBR of 55.6.

By 2024, as the full-time starter, Drew Allar completed 262 of 394 passes (66.5%) for 3,327 yards, 24 touchdowns, and eight interceptions. His Total QBR rose to 78.9, reflecting growth in accuracy and pocket presence. Allar’s 2024 season included a third-place finish in the Big Ten for passing yards and a fourth-place finish in QBR among starting quarterbacks.

His interception rate remained low, with only 0.51% of his passes picked off in 2023, a Penn State single-season record. Drew Allar also added 302 rushing yards and six touchdowns, demonstrating mobility that complemented his 6’5”, 235-pound frame and strong arm. Walker emphasized Allar’s development under offensive coordinator Andy Kotelnicki, noting that despite a disappointing CFP performance against Notre Dame, Allar’s improved mechanics and decision-making suggest he could elevate Penn State to new heights in 2025.

Walker’s analysis underscores the importance of patience in quarterback development, particularly for highly touted recruits like Klubnik and Allar, both five-star prospects from the 2022 class. He argued that their early struggles were typical of young quarterbacks adjusting to the college game, but their 2024 performances show they have overcome those growing pains. Klubnik’s ACC Championship and CFP appearance with Clemson, paired with Allar’s role in guiding Penn State to the CFP semifinals, demonstrate their ability to lead high-stakes games. As both quarterbacks enter their senior seasons, Walker believes their statistical growth and experience make them prime candidates to redefine their reputations and compete among the elite in 2025.

For Cade Klubnik and Drew Allar, the time is now.

This is the year, Cade Klubnik has improved so much under this new offense… He’s focused, he’s having fun… you know the rest, Auburn fans.

Is a Heisman year in store for the veteran leaders? Only time will tell!

Heisman Watch is officially on!