In Clemson, South Carolina, excitement is brewing as quarterback Cade Klubnik sets his sights on the 2025 season with high aspirations. For years, the Heisman Trophy has eluded the football program, despite the presence of legendary quarterbacks like Deshaun Watson and Trevor Lawrence. However, many believe that 2025 could mark the year when the prestigious award finally makes its way to Death Valley.
Renowned analyst Stewart Mandel recently listed Klubnik as one of the top contenders for the Heisman, indicating he might even be a finalist invited to New York in December. Mandel notes that Klubnik’s combination of talent and favorable circumstances places him among the leading favorites for this highly coveted honor.
Klubnik closed out the 2024 season impressively, showing remarkable maturity and leadership on the field. His performance in back-to-back victories against SMU and Texas, where he tossed seven touchdown passes and amassed over 590 passing yards, was nothing short of spectacular. This impressive stretch not only secured vital wins for Clemson but also helped raise Klubnik’s profile as a national star.
As the 2025 season approaches, if Klubnik can maintain this level of play, he is sure to be a significant player in the Heisman conversation right from the start. One noteworthy advantage for him is the current landscape of the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) . Mandel points out that Clemson stands as the clear favorite in the conference, suggesting that Klubnik won’t face substantial competition there.
This favorable position gives the Tigers a strong chance to advance to the ACC Championship in December, where the stakes will be high as they aim for a berth in the College Football Playoff (CFP). Klubnik’s contributions will be critical in this scenario, and if he leads Clemson to success, he will be under the national spotlight.
Beyond his impressive stats, it is Klubnik’s leadership that could be the key to his Heisman candidacy. The Tiger coaching staff recognizes that a calm and steady quarterback is essential for conquering the ACC and competing for a playoff spot. Klubnik has already demonstrated his ability to perform under pressure, and his ongoing development suggests he could soon become a superstar in college football.
With a potent offense, a favorable ACC schedule, and a rising star in Cade Klubnik, the outlook for Clemson is incredibly promising. Expectations are soaring, and the elusive Heisman Trophy, often just out of reach, now appears within Clemson’s grasp.
