CLEMSON — Clemson football’s spring game is Saturday at Memorial Stadium, and coach Dabo Swinney wants fans to come out and create a game atmosphere.
Since there are no preseason games in college football, this will be Clemson’s only chance to play competitively with an audience (1 p.m. ET, ESPN+), until it faces Georgia on Aug. 31 to begin the 2024 season.
“Let’s pack that thing, and let’s make it a great day,” Swinney said.
MORE: Watch Clemson football’s 2024 spring practice live with ESPN+ (subscribe today)
After 14 spring sessions, Tigers players aim to showcase their growth since the Gator Bowl last season, while exciting freshmen will receive game reps for the first time in the Orange vs. White spring game.
Here are five things to watch during the annual game:
QB Cade Klubnik’s maturation
The last time Klubnik took the field was when he led a 12-play, 68-yard touchdown drive to lift Clemson over Kentucky in the Gator Bowl. During spring practices, he has been building a better rapport with his skill position teammates and improving his post-snap recognition in his second year under offensive coordinator Garrett Riley.
Last season, Klubnik was sacked 28 times and had nine interceptions. Look for how the junior goes through his progressions and how fast he gets the ball out while limiting turnovers and sacks Saturday.
“The guy has played a lot of snaps now, and just being comfortable — Year Two of the same language, same system, same guys that are around him and then some of the additions,” Riley said.
Starting position battles for center and kicker
Swinney hasn’t announced a starter for each position, but he revealed Wednesday if the Tigers had a game, Ryan Linthicum would start at center over Harris Sewell and Trent Howard. Swinney would like to see Linthicum commit to his body more, but he still has the advantage…
Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/cade-klubniks-growth-tops-five-091035573.html
Author : Greenville News
Publish date : 2024-04-05 09:10:35
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