Amid Arch Manning Heisman rumors, CFB insider reveals Cade Klubnik's standout skillset for the coveted honor in 2025

One of the biggest reasons the Clemson Tigers could be a national championship contender is its returning quarterback, Cade Klubnik. The 21-year-old veteran enters 2025 for his final year of NCAA eligibility, and he already appears to have entered the Heisman conversation.

CFB insider Phil Steele, appearing recently on "The Herd" with Colin Cowherd, shared his analysis of Klubnik and explained why he thinks the Clemson QB could be a breakout star this season. Steele noted that Klubnik’s ability to use his resources and run the ball sets him apart.

“I picked him to win the Heisman and I'll tell you why. You go back two years ago, he had 19 touchdowns to just nine interceptions, and people were wondering about him. But coming into that season in '23, he lost his top three receivers due to injury,” Steele said to Cowherd on Thursday. [Timestamp - 3:30]

The veteran analyst believes Klubnik could have an edge over Arch Manning for the Heisman because of his experience as a starter.

“Last year, he got those injured receivers back, added in a couple of top-notch transfers, and all of a sudden, 36 touchdowns to six interceptions. He's operating behind my number two-rated offensive line.

"He's got my number two set of receivers to throw to. And when I look at Clemson's schedule, I've got him winning all 12 games. So I think Klubnik leads the nation in passing and leads a 12-0 team,” he added.

Cade Klubnik has a challenging ACC schedule in 2025

The Tigers’ path to a perfect season in 2025 will not be easy. Even though the ACC is generally viewed as weaker than the SEC or Big Ten, Clemson will still face some of the top programs in the league. The season opener against LSU at home is one of the biggest matchups in all of college football.

It will be a clash of two veteran QBs at Memorial Stadium. Clemson will also face Syracuse in Week 4 and North Carolina in Week 5.

Boston College, SMU and Duke follow in consecutive weeks. The Tigers will meet Mike Norvell’s FSU in Week 9 and close the regular season against South Carolina.