The yearly rematch between South Carolina and Clemson will be a high-stakes affair as LaNorris Sellers is set to challenge Cade Klubnik. Both quarterbacks are up-and-coming prospects in their own right.
Yet, despite the momentum of Sellers, three major advantages are in favor of Clemson winning this year’s late-season matchup.
1. Cade Klubnik’s Elite Leadership and Continuity
Cade Klubnik arrives on a breakout 2024 season with 36 touchdowns and almost 3,700 passing yards. Those stats are bringing him into the 2025 Heisman buzz and have the potential to push Clemson to the limits of its offensive potential.
His management reflects the philosophy of Coach Swinney, which is the development from within rather than picking up the portal according to Wall Street Journal. This plan seems to have put Clemson on the right track as this year they have climbed back into the top 5 of the preseason rankings.
2. Depth and Roster Advantage Through Retention
Clemson has the majority of its production coming back into the team, and this is an advantage to them in terms of roster depth compared to South Carolina. Klubnik has the advantage of system and personnel familiarity-Sellers does not have the same luxury of offensive support adjustment.
The Gamecocks are only bringing back 9 total starters in 2025, and 5 are on the offensive side. On the other side, 16 returning starters for the Tigers should keep a sort of continuity for Klubnik.
3. LaNorris Sellers, Skillful but Limited by SEC Schedule
Sellers rejected an $8 million NIL deal to be loyal – a trait to his character, but his offensive support is still a concern. Although he was an SEC Freshman of the Year, his 2024 numbers were 2,534 passing yards, 18 TDs, and 7 INTs with an evolved team.
This year, the conference schedule won’t give the Gamecocks any favors either. They have to play Alabama, LSU, Oklahoma, Texas A&M, and Ole Miss, who are all ranked in the AP top 25 heading into Week 1. Without the elite weapons and line continuity, Sellers might not be able to lift the Gamecocks late in the season at Death Valley.
Final Thoughts
The consistency of Clemson at the quarterback position, the depth of returning talent, and the strategic stability of that team outweigh the emerging QB by South Carolina. The polish of Cade Klubnik and the organization structure of the team are just one level higher than where Sellers is presently. Clemson is expected to win the gap that counts the most, the talent and teamwork throughout the roster.
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