CBS Sports gives brand new insider update on Clemson's quarterbacks

Dabo Swinney has not handed over the keys to Clemson's offense just yet, but Christopher Vizzina appears to have one hand on them.

Vizzina continues to be the favorite in Clemson 's quarterback competition, according to CBS Sports' Matt Zenitz. The report comes with the Tigers nearly one week away from their season opener against LSU .

It is not an official announcement from Dabo Swinney, but it is the latest indication that Vizzina has maintained his advantage over freshman Tait Reynolds.

Swinney described Vizzina as being in the "pole position" earlier this offseason while insisting he still needed to win the race. Reynolds applied pressure during spring practice and continued competing for the job during fall camp, but Vizzina's patience and experience appear to have kept him in front.

The senior has completed 64 of 105 career passes for 596 yards, four touchdowns and one interception across 14 appearances. He has also rushed for 109 yards and one score.

With Cade Klubnik sidelined against SMU last season due to a right ankle sprain, Vizzina completed 29 of 42 passes for 317 yards, three touchdowns, and no interceptions. He became Clemson's first quarterback since Deshaun Watson in 2014 to throw at least three touchdown passes in his starting debut. The Tigers still lost 35-24, but leading the Tigers to 24 on the day is a competent performance for the Birmingham native.

The lingering question has to be addressed, however. Vizzina has never entered a season as Clemson's primary quarterback, and opening in Baton Rogue against LSU will provide an immediate heat check. We should learn quickly whether Vizzina can elevate Clemson into a legendary team, guide it to a fine season, or if it's going to go downhill for Swinney and Co. Reynolds also gives the coaching staff a raw, athletic alternative if Vizzina struggles or the offense needs a different element.

Clemson could have pursued an established starter through the transfer portal after Klubnik departed for the NFL . Swinney instead placed his trust in the quarterbacks already inside the program.

Unless Reynolds produces a late knockout blow, that trust appears ready to land on Vizzina's shoulders.

Photos from Clemson football 2026 spring game

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