The preseason Heisman race has a new, definitive front-runner, according to one of college football's most respected prognosticators.
Longtime expert Phil Steele has officially planted his flag, telling Colin Cowherd this week on The Herd that he's picking Clemson senior quarterback Cade Klubnik to take home the iconic trophy.
"I picked him to win the Heisman," Steele stated. "I think Klubnik leads the nation in passing, leads a 12-0 team, and I believe he’s going to take home the Heisman this year.”
The Perfect Storm for a Heisman Run
Steele's prediction isn't just based on Klubnik's talent; it's based on the elite supporting cast around him, which he believes is the best in the nation.
"He’s operating behind my No. 2-rated offensive line, he’s got my No. 2 set of receivers to throw to," Steele explained. "And when I look at Clemson’s schedule, I’ve got them winning all 12 games."
Steele pointed to Klubnik's massive leap in 2024—jumping from 19 touchdowns in 2023 to 36 last season—as proof of his trajectory. Klubnik finished second in the nation with 43 total touchdowns and was one of only two QBs to throw for over 3,500 yards and rush for over 400.
His elite play was on full display in the College Football Playoff, where he threw for 336 yards and three touchdowns against a stout Texas defense—the most they allowed to an opposing QB all season.
An Immediate Heisman Moment
Klubnik will have an immediate chance to validate Steele's pick and make a statement to the nation. He opens the season on August 30 against LSU and quarterback Garrett Nussmeier, who is currently tied with Klubnik for the second-best Heisman odds (+900) on FanDuel Sportsbook.
If Steele's prediction holds true, Klubnik would make history, becoming the first player in Clemson's storied history to win the Heisman Trophy, succeeding where legends like Deshaun Watson and Trevor Lawrence fell just short.