Cade Klubnik details vibe around Clemson now

Stephen Samraby:Steve Samra11/18/23

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Final Thoughts For Week 12

Cade Klubnik and the Clemson Tigers are basking in the glory of their resurgence over the last couple of weeks.

Preparing for a showdown against No. 20 North Carolina in Week 12, the Tigers quarterback elaborated on the vibes around the program, and how Clemson has been able to salvage what looked to be a lost season less than a month ago.

“Obviously feel great after back-to-back wins. But just super proud of these guys,” Klubnik said. “We haven’t lost faith one time, and just continued to come to work every single day. Just super proud of this team.

“It’s been a wild year, so just proud of continuing to fight every single week. … I think it’s always fun to talk about positive things, especially after a win. It’s good.”

Alas, Klubnik’s improved play is causing many to change their tune on Clemson as we get to the final games on their schedule.

One of those people is ESPN’s Rece Davis. He shared his pick for Tar Heels at Tigers during the ‘College GameDay Podcast’ on Thursday.

He started by admitting his very regard of UNC QB Drake Maye who, naturally, is a big reason why North Carolina could end up on top in this game, but also stated that after a certain message from a call-in showDabo Swinney and his team now clearly have a fire underneath them.

“There’s still no bigger fan of Drake Maye than I am,” said Davis. “I think he’s a sensational prospect, I think he’s going to be a great pro. I think he’s a tremendous college quarterback. … Now, Clemson is not what it was. But, since Tyler from Spartanburg? They’ve looked a little more like Clemson – at least closer.”

All things considered, Davis is deciding to ride with Clemson over North Carolina with the chips on the table on Saturday.

“I just can’t get to a point where I would trust Carolina to win this game or even cover it,” said Davis

“Look, I love the Drake. But I just can’t see how they can get there against Clemson,” Davis said. “I doubt that they protect him well enough. Carolina will probably find some ways – because of him, because of Tez Walker, running game. They’ll find some ways to get some points. But who in the world can trust Carolina to stop anybody from scoring?

“Ultimately, too much pressure, offense will probably make a mistake – Clemson wins and covers.”

We’ll see if Cade Klubnik and company can keep the good vibes rolling against the Tar Heels on Saturday.

On3’s Sam Gillenwater contributed to this article.