BREAKING NEWS: Clemson Tigers’ Cade Klubnik Reveals Why Clemson’s 2025 Season Was Too Good to Pass Up
January 19, 2025 – Clemson, SC
In an exclusive interview with Clemson Sports Weekly, quarterback Cade Klubnik opened up about his decision to return for the 2025 season and why he believes the Clemson Tigers are poised to make an unprecedented run at the national championship this year.
After a promising sophomore campaign that saw Klubnik improve dramatically, it came as a surprise to many when he announced his decision to forego entering the NFL Draft and stay in Clemson for another year. Klubnik’s decision has paid off in spades, with the Tigers emerging as a top contender in college football. As the 2025 season kicks into high gear, Klubnik is more confident than ever that this is the year Clemson reclaims its dominance.
“I’m just so excited for what we’ve got here at Clemson,” Klubnik said in the interview. “Everything is in place. The talent, the coaching staff, the energy around the program—it’s all come together in a way that felt too special to walk away from. I honestly believe this season has the potential to be the best we’ve ever had.”
Klubnik, who arrived at Clemson as one of the top recruits in the nation in 2023, has grown both on and off the field. The Tigers’ offensive unit, led by Klubnik, boasts one of the most explosive and versatile attacks in the country, making them a nightmare for defenses week in and week out.
In the 2025 season opener, the Tigers overwhelmed their opponent in a statement victory, with Klubnik throwing for 350 yards and four touchdowns. His precision in the pocket and ability to make plays on the move has drawn comparisons to some of the best quarterbacks in Clemson history, including Deshaun Watson and Trevor Lawrence. And while it’s clear the young star has the skills to play at the next level, he insists that the opportunity to lead Clemson back to the top of college football was too good to pass up.
“There’s something special about this program and the legacy we’re building here,” Klubnik said. “Being part of Clemson’s success isn’t just about individual achievements. It’s about bringing something back to the fans, the school, and to our coaches. Coach [Dabo] Swinney has been a big part of my decision. His trust in me and the freedom he gives me to make plays has been huge.”
The 2025 season has been a blend of high expectations and tangible results. Under the guidance of Swinney, who has transformed the Tigers into perennial playoff contenders, Clemson has looked unbeatable in nearly every game this season. Their defense, led by star linebacker Jeremiah Trotter Jr., has been suffocating, while their receiving corps, featuring standout playmakers like Antonio Williams, has given Klubnik an array of weapons to work with.
Klubnik’s decision to stay another season also gives Clemson more time to solidify its place among college football’s elite programs. “I want to leave a legacy here, and I want to make sure this team reaches its full potential. We have the talent, we have the coaches, and we have the culture. It’s all coming together in 2025,” Klubnik stated.
As the Tigers continue their march toward the College Football Playoff, fans are beginning to believe that 2025 could indeed be the year Clemson reclaims its spot at the pinnacle of college football, thanks to Cade Klubnik’s unwavering belief in his team and the legacy they’re building together.
Stay tuned for further updates as the Tigers look to make their mark on a historic season.