Clemson Tigers quarterback Christopher Vizzina has received a stern reality check heading into next season.
With Cade Klubnik departing for the NFL Draft, the Clemson Tigers will finally have a new quarterback next season.
But who will it be?
Upcoming redshirt junior Christopher Vizzina is certainly the favorite to win the job, and Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney has alluded to that.
However, Vizzina is not guaranteed to be the opening day starter, and Jason Priester of The Clemson Insider has exposed a rather tough reality check for Vizzina.
"The fact that a new offensive coordinator is in place means that all the quarterbacks will basically be starting with a clean slate when it comes to learning the new scheme," Priester wrote. "No one guy will have an advantage over the other in that regard."
Priester feels that offensive coordinator Chad Morris will weigh all options when helping determine the starter for 2026.
"For those assuming Vizzina will be the guy, [Chris] Denson just might have something to say about that," Priester added. "He still has a little work to do when it comes to the passing game, but we’ve seen Morris work wonders with his quarterbacks in the past, and that is what spring practice is for."
Clemson Tigers quarterback Christopher Vizzina. Credit: Ken Ruinard / staff / USA TODAY NETWORK.Vizzina did get one start this past season, going 29-for-42 with 317 yards and three touchdowns in a loss to SMU. Since arriving at Clemson in 2023, he has gone 64-for-105 with 596 yards, four touchdowns and an interception.
The former four-star recruit has definitely shown some promise in the short time he has been on the field, so there is no question that he should have the inside track to become the full-time starter.
But if Vizzina has a poor showing in camp or if Denson looks outstanding, Swinney may have to make a surprising decision.
It's uncharted territory for the Tigers, as Klubnik had been the starter each of the last three seasons. That included a brilliant 2024 campaign in which Klubnik racked up 36 touchdown passes.
Now, though, Clemson will have to find a new solution at the most important position, and Swinney chose to ignore the transfer portal as an option.
That means the two-time national champion coach is confident that the answer will come from in house. We will see if Vizzina can answer the call.
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