Clemson Makes Decision After Cade Klubnik Development

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Ayomide Adeduyite | Last updated Oct 18, 2025 11:00 AM ET

Saturday’s clash between Clemson and SMU carries added intrigue as the Tigers continue a turbulent 2025 campaign. Clemson enters the contest 3-3 overall and 2-2 in ACC play, still searching for consistency after an up-and-down start.

Their most recent win over Boston College provided some relief, but quarterback Cade Klubnik’s ankle injury late in that game put a sour taste on the impressive win. Klubnik had thrown for 280 yards and a touchdown before the setback.

With the Tigers’ offense struggling to establish rhythm, there were questions about how they plan to adapt should Klubnik not suit up when they host an SMU team capable of exploiting any weakness.

Clemson Tigers quarterback Cade Klubnik (2)Eric Canha-Imagn Images

Hours before kickoff, Clemson officially ruled Klubnik out of Saturday’s matchup. ESPN’s Pete Thamel had reported earlier on College GameDay that “he’s expected to be a game-time decision and there’s not a lot of optimism that Klubnik’s going to be able to go vs. SMU this afternoon.”

That uncertainty has now become reality and Chris Vizzina has been confirmed to start at quarterback, per On3 Sports’ Brett McMurphy.

NEW: Clemson plans to start Chris Vizzina at QB in place of the injured Cade Klubnik against SMU

(via @PeteNakos_, @clowfb and @Brett_McMurphy)https://t.co/NWr8QUTDzL pic.twitter.com/KUIZbowhYZ
— On3 (@On3sports) October 18, 2025

Vizzina, a sophomore, steps in for his first major start. Entering 2025, he had completed 19-of-34 passes for 190 yards, adding 68 rushing yards and one touchdown across limited action. This season, he’s 7-of-14 for 37 yards with one interception, along with 21 rushing yards.

Standing 6′4″ and 210 pounds, Vizzina is regarded as a strong-armed pocket passer with mobility and upside, though still untested under pressure.

Clemson’s staff is expected to simplify the playbook and lean on its running game to support the young quarterback. SMU, on the other hand, will look to capitalize on his inexperience and apply early defensive pressure. The game kicks off at 3:00 p.m. ET at Memorial Stadium and will be televised on ACC Network.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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