The Clemson Tigers may have to prepare for a tough reality check when it comes to quarterback Christopher Vizzina.
For the past several years, the Clemson Tigers had been stable under center thanks to Cade Klubnik. Even though Klubnik struggled in 2025, there was never any quarterback controversy at Clemson.
But now, Klubnik is heading to the NFL, and the quarterback position has become a major sticking point for the Tigers.
Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney declined to pursue a signal-caller in the transfer portal, instead deciding to roll with Christopher Vizzina as his answer under center.
A former four-star prospect, Vizzina is preparing to enter his redshirt junior campaign and is looking to prove the Tigers right for not bringing in another quarterback.
ESPN's Greg McElroy is fascinated by Clemson's strategy and feels that the Tigers could face a "harsh reality" if Vizzina struggles.
"So here’s the question. In a sport where most of the top programs are out shopping for quarterbacks like it’s the world’s most aggressive draft strategy ever, can Clemson still win at the highest level with a homegrown quarterback pipeline?" McElroy said on his podcast.
There are two ways this can go, and Clemson better hope that the path bends right.
Clemson Tigers quarterback Christopher Vizzina. Credit: Eric Canha-Imagn Images."Now if Vizzina hits and Clemson looks smart and ahead of the curve in a different way and they’re going to be stable, because stability at quarterback lets you develop identity over time," McElroy added. "But if he struggles, then Clemson’s going to face the harsh reality of what it’s like to live in modern times."
Vizzina made one start against SMU this past season, going 29-for-42 with 317 yards and three touchdowns in a 35-24 loss. Throughout his tenure with the Tigers as a whole, he has totaled 596 yards, four touchdowns and an interception.
Clemson went just 7-6 in 2025, marking its worst finish since going 6-7 during Swinney's second season at the helm back in 2010.
The Tigers have been fading fast on the college football landscape, so if Vizzina bombs, it could have pretty serious ramifications for Clemson moving forward.
Swinney has been accused of being stubborn for failing to adapt to modern times. If Vizzina does not pan out, Swinney will once again be criticized for refusing to get with the program.
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