Dabo Swinney evaluates performances from Cade Klubnik, Garrett Riley after Georgia loss

Clemson’s offense was the big issue last year, and it didn’t get any better for quarterback Cade Klubnik or offensive coordinator Garrett Riley in the 34-3 loss to Georgia.

There had been talk throughout the off-season that the offense was ready to take another step, but that didn’t materialize in Week 1 against the Bulldogs. The Tigers finished with 188 total yards of offense, and Klubnik wasn’t able to get anything going through the air. He completed 18-0f-29 passes for only 142 yards and one interception.

Still, after the game, coach Dabo Swinney said there were some bright spots in Klubnik’s performance against the Bulldogs.

“I thought he played well,” Sweeney told reporters.

Dabo Swinney on Clemson QB Cade Klubnik: “I thought he played well.” Says he saw “a lot of bright spots” from Klubnik. He was also proud of Klubnik’s comments in the postgame locker room after the UGA loss

— Chapel Fowler (@chapelfowler) August 31, 2024

Swinney was also asked to evaluate Riley’s performance as a play-caller in this game. This is the start of Riley’s 2nd season in that role. Swinney didn’t give a lot of details, but indicated that Clemson would have chances to improve offensively over the course of the year.

Asked Dabo Swinney for his evaluation of OC Garrett Riley and what he’d say to fans frustrated that Riley hasn’t been able to generate a ton of consistent explosive plays for Tigers since joining the team:

“I’d say there’s a long season ahead”

— Chapel Fowler (@chapelfowler) August 31, 2024

Clemson’s offense produced just 3 plays of 15+ yards on the day.

The Tigers will look to get their first win of the 2024 season when they host App State next Saturday.

Mark Kern