While expectations were high for Cade Klubnik entering the 2023 season, the actual results were a mixed bag of the positive and negative.
Klubnik's good was really good, but the bad was absolutely head-scratching at times.
- Passing Yards: 2,844 (219 YPG)
- Comp %: 64.9
- YPA: 6.26
- TD: 19
- INT: 9
- Fumbles: 10 (5 Lost)
Make no mistake, Klubnik didn't always get a lot of help from the running game, nor his pass protection, but his individual play must be better in 2024. His decision-making being one of the things at, or near the top of the list.
Pulling the ball and throwing a WR screen on 3rd and short against Florida State in overtime, rather than handing it off on an RPO was one play that stands out. As was pulling it on a designed handoff against Miami in overtime. Those are just two examples. There were more.
However, as the season progressed, Klubnik's decision making got better, culminating in what we saw on the game-winning drive against Kentucky in the Gator Bowl. He was getting the ball out on time, scanning the field, and delivering his throws with pinpoint accuracy on that final drive. That is the Klubnik the Tigers need in 2024.
Looking at Klubnik's season statistics, two things really stand out. One is the tunrovers. Ten fumbles is obviously too many, and ball security is another area in which he needs to improve upon. Somehow, some way, he has to be better at holding onto to the football.
Last but not least, the 6.26 YPA needs to be better. The Tigers struggled mightily when it comes to stretching the field. While pass protection and receiver play absolutely factors into that, so does QB play. Klubnik has to get better at scanning the entire field.
Outlook: While Klubnik is probably not as far along as most assumed he would be at this point, it is far too early to be throwing the towel in on the former 5-star prospect. He has the tools. His good has been really good. The Tigers just need him to keep progressing and take a leap in his development over the offseason.
The staff at AllClemsonTigers.com will continue to bring you free access to news stories, features, press conferences, recruiting mailbags and game recaps, but Death Valley Domain offers something else.
Want to know more about what’s going on behind the scenes and get exclusive scoops surrounding the team? Snag that membership today and keep up with everything going on around Clemson athletics, a monthly subscription of $4.99 gets you all this and more.
Want to save $10? Sign up for an entire year for just $49.99 right now.
►LIKE us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/allclemson
►SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/c/AllClemson
►FOLLOW All Clemson on Twitter:https://twitter.com/All_Clemson
