USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
Aug 17, 2026 9:05 PM
Christopher Vizzina seized momentum in Saturday’s scrimmage, emerging as the likely starter for the LSU opener while dynamic challenger Tait Reynolds keeps the pressure on Dabo Swinney.
The Clemson Tigers received some clarity on their quarterback battle during a scrimmage over the weekend.
Christopher Vizzina and Tait Reynolds are battling for the starting spot in training camp. Vizzina, a backup to Cade Klubnik last year, appears to be the best option to give the Tigers experience before their Week 1 contest on the road at LSU.
Still, Vizzina offers Vizzina a challenge and Clemson a change of pace at quarterback. As an athlete, he could give the Tigers an extra gear that will pose a challenge for defenses.
Per Pete Nakos of On3, Vizzina had a solid outing during Saturday's scrimmage, leading the offense on a couple of scoring drives. Nakos believes Vizzina will get the start against LSU.
However, that doesn't mean a quarterback controversy won't continue into the regular season. Nakos suggested Reynolds will push for playing time at some point during the season.
Swinney and the Tigers face fewer expectations for the upcoming season than when they entered the 2025 campaign ranked No. 4. Clemson is unranked in the preseason Associated Press poll revealed on Monday.
Swinney knows his team is facing stacked odds to make the College Football Playoff. When talking to reporters on Monday, he said Clemson would need to play near perfect to win games.
“I am not worried about getting the result," Swinney said, via USA Today. "I am worried about doing the work that will lead to the result. That is all I am worried about.
These guys, if they show up and compete, I believe they are capable of competing with anybody. Now, let’s not kid ourselves, we will have to play, not perfect, but not far from it.”
Clemson's goal is to rebuild a winner after going 7-6 last year. LSU will be a tough contest in Week 1, but the Tigers only play another ranked team, No. 7 Miami, on the schedule this fall.
The Tigers could develop into a surprise this year. For Clemson to do that, Vizzina or Reynolds will need to become a threat, and that could play a role in how long the battle lasts.
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