Cade Klubnik Emphasizes Fresh Start, Team Focus as Clemson Prepares for Boston College

After leading Clemson to a dominant win over North Carolina, quarterback Cade Klubnik isn’t spending much time celebrating stats or headlines. Instead, his focus is on what’s next — and how the Tigers can build on a much-needed sense of momentum heading into Boston College.

Klubnik threw four touchdown passes in the first half against UNC, joining Patrick Mahomes as the only quarterbacks ever to pull off that feat against a Bill Belichick-coached team. For Clemson’s senior quarterback, that number means less than the way the team responded after recent adversity.

“It’s cool,” Klubnik said. “Honestly, I’m more excited about just getting a win. That was 11 guys making plays and doing our job. So definitely a cool stat to look back on, but I’m really excited just about getting a win against a good team and a great head coach like him.”

The Tigers’ offense found rhythm early, connecting on a long touchdown pass from Klubnik to wide receiver Antonio Williams, setting the tone for a 28-point first quarter.

“I think it was big. I think we needed a spark early, and that’s what we did,” Klubnik said. “Tone delivered a dime. I think it was really good for the whole team. It kind of lit up the whole sideline and silenced the rest of the stadium.”

Klubnik noted that the team has treated this stretch of the season as a reset — a “fresh slate” — and credited the coaching staff’s focus on detailed preparation.

“It really starts in practice, with our details,” he said. “I think one of the biggest things that Coach Swinney said was, ‘We might have a really good Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday—but what does Thursday, Friday look like in our prep?’ I think that as a team we did an excellent job of being really intentional on Thursday and Friday.”

Klubnik highlighted several teammates who have helped set the tone with their effort and consistency, including receiver Tristan Smith and defensive lineman Peter Woods, who has seen goal-line work on offense in recent games.

“He’s an effort guy, man,” Klubnik said of Woods. “Whatever we need him to do, he’s going to do it. Let’s get a little more weight back there and go get the job done.”

Another storyline this week is receiver Ronan Hannafin returning home to face Boston College, where he’ll play against his brother, Eagles’ backup quarterback Shane Hanafin.

“I’m pumped for him,” Klubnik said. “He’s going to have hundreds of people there supporting him. I just hope he plays his best game.”

With the Tigers riding their best offensive output of the season, Klubnik said the focus now is simple: keep the energy, keep the standard.

“At the end of the day, it’s about playing free — not for anybody’s approval,” he said. “Just playing for the guys around us.”