While it’s obvious who the Clemson starting quarterback will be this season, Clemson back up quarterback Nick Schuessler says the competition at the quarterback position this fall has still been very competitive.

“It’s been fun. We all have a great relationship. Everybody in the quarterback room is really competitive and just to get out there and have a chance to just go at it. It’s been a lot of fun,”  he said.

Getting to compete with the best quarterbacks in the country in Deshaun Watson and Kelly Bryant, Schuessler has really enjoyed battling with such a talented group of guys.

“Both unbelievable players. Deshaun is the best player in the country hands down and Kelly is just as good. We have had a good battle throughout fall camp. It’s been fun to just get out there and compete,” the quarterback said.

Making the most out of fall camp, Schuessler says he made some great strides this year compared to last. From a mental standpoint, the quarterback said he has grown more comfortable with running the offense and has become more efficient in his decision making.

“I think just decision making. Just making quicker decisions out there, feeling a little more comfortable, being able to step in there and make some throws under pressure was good for me but I would say I grew the most in my decision making, ” he said.

The Georgia native felt like he showcased those improvements during Thursday’s scrimmage, the Tigers final one of the preseason.

“I felt good. I felt comfortable out there. I got a bunch of reps. Like I said, its easy to make plays out there when you have a bunch of humble people out there, receiver, backs, offensive lineman. It was good,” Schuessler said.

Referring to himself as the “grandpa”on the team due to his five year tenor at Clemson, Schuessler has been able to step up as a leader. As freshmen Zerrick Cooper joins the Clemson quarterbacks this season, Schuessler has taken him under his wing and helped him adjust to the Clemson football program.

In helping Cooper develop into the next Clemson quarterback, Schuessler shared the most important advice he could give him as he begins his journey at Clemson.

“Just celebrate the small wins because at a place like Clemson when you have some of the top players in the country you get out there and it’s easy to get down on yourself, but every time you make a good throw just don’t beat yourself up, don’ t be too hard on yourself. Just take the small wins and take it in stride,” Schuessler said.