By : Sabri Haidar
(Photo/Sabri Haidar-The Mojo Network)
Clemson’s season didn’t start the way Tiger fans hoped. A 17–10 loss to No. 9 LSU in Death Valley has already sparked plenty of outside noise, but the reality is simple: one game doesn’t define a season.
Quarterback Cade Klubnik, who was spectacular in 2024, struggled to find rhythm on Saturday. He finished just 19 of 38 for 230 yards with one interception, a far cry from last season’s 63% completion rate and efficient decision-making. His lone turnover equaled nearly one-sixth of his entire 2024 total.
Still, the problems went beyond the quarterback. Clemson’s rushing attack never got going, producing just 31 yards, while LSU’s relentless pass rush forced Klubnik into uncomfortable throws all night.
Swinney’s Assessment
Head coach Dabo Swinney didn’t sugarcoat what he saw.
“We had some critical drops on contested plays we need to make, not good on third down. Had a couple of penalties. And Cade did not play well,” Swinney said.
It wasn’t a shot at his quarterback—it was constructive and direct. Clemson had chances to win the game and failed to capitalize. That’s the difference at the highest level.
Why It’s Not Time to Panic
The expanded 12-team College Football Playoff changes the calculus. In past years, an opening-week loss to a top-10 opponent might’ve been devastating. Now, there’s margin for error.
And LSU isn’t just another opponent. The Tigers from Baton Rouge came in loaded, featuring a rebuilt defense that clearly hit its stride, NFL-caliber talent at wide receiver, and a poised quarterback in Garrett Nussmeier.
Clemson, meanwhile, still has plenty of strengths. The defense showed toughness, the wide receiver room is as deep as it’s been in years, and the backfield—though quiet Saturday—is talented enough to bounce back. Most importantly, Klubnik remains one of the nation’s top signal callers despite an off night.
The Road Ahead
Klubnik’s own words after the game captured the focus. “Let’s bounce back and get to the playoffs,” he said.
Clemson gets its shot to regroup against Troy next Saturday at home. Kickoff is set for 3:30 p.m. ET, and it’s the perfect chance for the Tigers to reset before the heart of the ACC schedule arrives.