'Clemson relies on quarterback and veteran presence in revamped ACC'

Cade Klubnik and Clemson are relying on their previous experience to have an impact in the newly revamped ACC this year.

The Tigers have Klubnik and seven other offensive starters returning, which head coach Dabo Swinney knows can make a difference.

\"It's definitely a blessing to have your starting quarterback back. We've had great quarterbacks come in and do well in their first year in our system,\" Swinney said on Thursday at ACC Media Days in Charlotte, N.C. \"It's always great when you're not starting from scratch and have a player who has grown and gained experience. Cade is a great young man and a talented player. We're excited for his second year as our starter, and also for offensive coordinator and QB coach Garrett Riley. This will be Cade's first time having the same coach and system, and we expect to see some great growth from that.\"

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Klubnik was a full-time starter for the first time in 2023 and also played under Riley in 2022. He had 19 touchdowns and nine interceptions last season and credits a simplified approach from Riley for his positive outlook on 2024.

\"One of the biggest things for me is taking it one week at a time,\" Klubnik said. \"I don't look ahead to the next opponent or two weeks down the road. I focus on one day at a time. That's something we've talked about as a team. Being automatic in everything, every play, being efficient. Making routine plays routine and sticking to the system.\"

In addition to working with Riley, Klubnik has also utilized networking and resources to learn from other quarterbacks. He has spoken with Clemson greats Deshaun Watson and Trevor Lawrence, as well as Eli and Peyton Manning, who have a connection to Klubnik's hometown of Austin, Texas.

\"I've talked to Deshaun and Trevor a little bit. They're both focused on their NFL careers right now, so they don't have much time to come back to Clemson and train with me,\" Klubnik said. \"But I've had some great mentors. Nick Foles, who also went to my high school (Westlake). I got to spend a couple days with the Mannings and learn some new things that I had never heard before.\"

ANOTHER ORANGE

Syracuse is excited to add another experienced quarterback to their roster with the addition of Ohio State transfer Kyle McCord. He left the Buckeyes at the end of the 2023 season and didn't hesitate to return to his home state of New Jersey to play in the \"conference of quarterbacks.\"

Where does McCord rank among the league's quarterbacks?

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\"I guess we'll see. I'm not one to make predictions, but I have confidence in my game and the players around me. I'm just excited to play,\" he said. \"I still have a sour taste in my mouth from the last time I was on the field against Michigan. I've been eager to get back on the field and compete.\"

NORTH BY SUBTRACTION

North Carolina head coach Mack Brown knows the team will feel the loss of their former quarterback, No. 3 overall pick Drake Maye. However, he also believes the Tar Heels will be better in 2024.

The Tar Heels will have their third different starting quarterback in three seasons, following Sam Howell and Maye. Competitors for the position include Jacolby Criswell, Texas A&M transfer Max Johnson, and Conner Harrell.

\"I remember when Drake started,\" said Brown, who returned to coaching from a broadcasting role at ESPN five years ago. \"Someone told me the other day that there isn't much buzz about our team right now. I think that's what was said when Drake and Jacolby were competing for the quarterback spot. We started 9-1. Conner has played enough now that he understands. He has the potential to be really good. Max has thrown 900 balls in the SEC.

\"I do think our defense will be better. Last year, we ran the ball more like we did when Michael Carter and Javonte Williams were here. Our offense will help our defense more. These guys can't be Drake or Sam, but we can be a better team.\"