The 2025 season in Death Valley isn’t just about chasing another ACC crown—it’s about finishing the job. Under the laser-focused leadership of Dabo Swinney, Clemson football isn’t content with an “almost.” The goal is crystal clear: win a national championship. And the key to that dream? Well, it all starts with keeping Cade Klubnik upright.
Cade Klubnik Catalyst Got Clemson’s Championship Hopes Riding on QB1
Cade Klubnik isn’t just the face of Clemson’s offense—he’s the engine, the spark plug, and the ignition switch all rolled into one. After an up-and-down start to his college career, Klubnik turned a major corner in 2024, delivering a cleaner, sharper brand of football that had NFL scouts perking up. With a solid TD-to-INT ratio, more poise under pressure, and a better command of the pocket, he proved he could be the guy.
Now, entering what could be his final year in orange, Klubnik is being projected by some as the potential No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. That kind of buzz isn’t handed out lightly—it speaks to the trust he’s earned and the ceiling analysts see in him. But all of that potential means nothing if he’s spending more time on the ground than in the air.
That’s where the Tigers’ biggest offseason priority comes in: protecting their quarterback.
The O-Line: From Question Mark to Cornerstone?
Clemson’s offensive line hasn’t always been a national talking point, but that might be about to change. Pro Football Focus has the Tigers’ 2025 O-line unit ranked No. 10 in the country heading into the season—a massive nod of confidence for a group that’s historically battled inconsistency.
A big part of that optimism stems from the return of two veteran anchors: Blake Miller and Tristan Leigh. These aren’t just experienced bodies—they’re bona fide forces in the trenches. Miller, in particular, has grown into a dominant right tackle with a mean streak and NFL traits. Leigh, meanwhile, offers size and athleticism that should hold up even against the SEC’s best pass rushers, especially with Clemson facing Georgia in their opener.
The success of Clemson’s season hinges on this group taking the next step. Because when Klubnik has time, Clemson’s offense sings. When he doesn’t? The Tigers stall. It’s that simple.
While Clemson hasn’t leaned heavily on the transfer portal like other programs, the staff hasn’t ignored it either. They’ve added depth where needed, but the belief this offseason is that the current group of linemen, battle-tested and cohesive, can hold the line.
Swinney’s subtle shifts in approach—bringing in new analysts, upgrading the strength and conditioning program, and tweaking the offense to suit Klubnik’s strengths—signal that he’s not just sticking to tradition. He’s evolving with the game. And he knows his quarterback’s health is priority No. 1.
Dabo Swinney on transfer portal guidelines:
“There are no rules right now. We just want some rules.”
(via @CollegeGameDay) https://t.co/LkxgD6Ikqd pic.twitter.com/SEEdv48JST
— On3 (@On3sports) June 2, 2025
All Eyes on the Prize
Clemson’s ceiling in 2025 isn’t just a return to the College Football Playoff. It’s a national title. In our College Sports Network power rankings, the Tigers are the No. 2 team, trailing only Georgia. College Football Network has them earning the No. 1 seed in the new 12-team playoff format. And Fox Sports currently gives them +1500 odds to win it all, behind only a handful of blue bloods.
The defense will be as nasty as ever, the skill players are reloaded, and Klubnik is entering the prime of his college career. The only thing that could derail this freight train? A leaky offensive line that lets their star quarterback take too many hits.
The good news? That seems unlikely this time around.
If Clemson wants to raise another banner in 2025, it starts in the trenches. A well-oiled offensive line won’t just keep Cade Klubnik healthy—it will let him be the game-changer he’s capable of becoming. With elite protection, Klubnik has the tools to carve up defenses, extend plays, and win games when it matters most.
KEEP READING: Are Dabo Swinney’s Clemson Tigers Being Overlooked as 2025 National Title Contenders?
Dabo Swinney and the Tigers are poised for something big. But in today’s college football, quarterback protection isn’t a luxury—it’s a requirement. Fix that one area, and the rest of the pieces are already in place.
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