CLEMSON — For all of Garrett Riley’s tenure at Clemson, Cade Klubnik has been his quarterback.

Over the past three seasons, Riley, Clemson’s third-year offensive coordinator, has been tasked with developing and leading the Tigers’ offense. Although there have been many ups and downs, he has grown with the program and developed strong relationships with the players that he helps to perform. One player with whom he holds a special connection is Klubnik.

“I love him, I really do,” Riley said. “He is a mentally tough guy. We’ve gone through it together, and there is a lot of common ground. We are from the same state, kind of grew up the same way in terms of high school football in Texas.”

Both Riley and Klubnik began their connection upon Riley’s arrival to Clemson in 2023, when he took over the role of offensive coordinator after his time at TCU. Immediately, the two began to work together and build a connection, which is essential for a quarterback leading a powerful offense.

“Any time you are with someone and you’re going through the ups and downs together, and trying to mentor and guide him, there’s going to be a connection,” Riley said, “and there certainly is with him.”

In their first year together, Riley helped Klubnik complete 290-of-454 passes for 19 touchdowns and nine interceptions, and things only got better from there. In 2024, Klubnik threw 36 touchdowns and only six interceptions. He accounted for 43 combined passing and rushing touchdowns, finishing third in touchdown responsibility in the nation under the guidance of Riley.

The impact he has made with Klubnik has been clear to see, despite the struggles that come and go as a unit.

“He’s going to be one of those guys who’s going to be successful no matter what he does in the future,” Riley said, “and our relationship will be a long-lasting one.”

Klubnik and Riley will work together for their final home game this season against Furman at 4:30 p.m., Saturday at Memorial Stadium.