CLEMSON — Though No. 22 Clemson is getting set to play Kentucky in the Gator Bowl on Dec. 29, it does not mean the Tigers are not looking ahead to spring practice.

Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney was asked about his quarterback situation heading into the spring, particularly if freshman Christopher Vizzina is in position to push Cade Klubnik for the job.

“I hope so. That is a perfect example of what you get out of bowl prep,” Swinney said.

The Tigers (8-4) wrapped up bowl practices at Clemson on Tuesday and will pick things back up on Christmas Eve when the team reconvenes in Fernandina Beach, Fla.

“I am going to tell you what, it has been fun,” Swinney said. “We have done a couple of scrimmages and hopefully we will have one more. Seeing CV and Trent (Pearman), those guys are good players. CV has been awesome.”

Vizzina played in just two games this season and took just nine snaps. He has yet to throw a pass.

“I was really anxious to see him because he has not had a lot,” Swinney said. “He has done some scout team, but most of the stuff has been mental work. We got him what we could, so I was anxious to see where he was based on what I saw in August.”

Swinney says Vizzina has looked good in bowl practice and the coaches can see he has progressed since the end of fall camp.

“It has been a fun week or so watching him,” Swinney said. “You get reminded pretty quick on why he was such a high-level recruit. He is big. He is strong. He can run. He is accurate with the football. He is a very good player.”

Swinney also said he was impressed with Pearman.

“Nobody talks about this kid, but he is a little baller,” the Clemson coach said. “He knows how to play the game. He needed to physically improve, so he redshirted and he has really changed his body and is just stronger.

“So, all the things you like about him that made him back-to-back Gatorade Player of the Year is just better because he is bigger, faster and stronger and has a feel for the game.”

The Gator Bowl will kick off at EverBank Stadium in Jacksonville, Fla., at Noon on Dec. 29 and will be televised by ESPN.

To honor Clemson’s special senior class Dear Old Clemson is selling footballs signed by 7 of Clemson’s Avengers for only $100.  These limited edition footballs are signed by Thomas, Orhorhoro, Davis, Mascoll, Henry, Murphy and Williams.  Get one while supplies last.