Clemson's starting quarterback position remains unresolved heading into fall camp, prompting college football analysts to project that multiple players could take snaps in the Sept. 5 season opener against LSU in Baton Rouge.
During an appearance on the Gramlich and Mac Lain podcast, ESPN and ACC Network analyst EJ Manuel stated he would not be surprised if redshirt sophomore Christopher Vizzina and true freshman Tait Reynolds both play during the marquee road matchup. While Manuel indicated Vizzina likely holds the advantage heading into camp, he noted that Reynolds possesses the talent to earn immediate playing time.
"Normally I would say, heck no, but I wouldn’t be shocked if Tait Reynolds at least gets his feet wet and gets some run," Manuel said. "I don’t know if it’s a package…I’m not saying go out there and be rolling with the offense. Now, if Vizzina is stinking it up, if he’s the starter and not playing well, as a head coach, you’ve got to do what you have to do."
Manuel added that head coach Dabo Swinney will provide ample opportunity for a clear starter to establish himself. "He’s going to give you an opportunity, but you’ve got to go out there and play well."
Historical Perspective and Coaching Staff Changes
Former Clemson offensive lineman Eric Mac Lain compared the current scenario to the 2014 season opener against the University of Georgia. In that contest, true freshman Deshaun Watson subbed in during the third offensive series to throw a touchdown pass to Charone Peake, despite veteran Cole Stoudt entering the game as the designated starter. However, Mac Lain cautioned against direct talent projections.
"This is not a Cole Stoudt/Deshaun Watson situation. Not yet, at least. Not that I know of," Mac Lain said. "I don’t think Tait is quite what Deshaun was coming in."
Mac Lain emphasized that the upcoming weeks will dictate how the coaching staff manages the depth chart. "We’ll see how they handle it. We’ll see if two guys truly play, or if one can separate when we get into fall camp."
The competition features an additional variable this season with the return of Chad Morris as Clemson's offensive coordinator. Because Morris did not recruit or previously coach either Vizzina or Reynolds, Mac Lain noted that the new coordinator has no prior bias toward either player.
"They’ve got a new coordinator. And Chad Morris doesn’t know jack about either of them," Mac Lain said. "He’s live-evaluating every single day who’s going to be that guy."
Roster Outlook
Manuel noted that off-season conversations with Swinney indicated internal organizational confidence in both players. He praised Vizzina for keeping his commitment to the program while waiting for a starting opportunity, but added that Swinney showed visible excitement when discussing the true freshman's capabilities.
"Coach Swinney’s eyebrows kinda raised when he started talking about Tait Reynolds," Manuel said.
Nevertheless, Manuel believes Vizzina's longevity within the system remains a distinct advantage as the team prepares for a difficult road environment at LSU.
"I have seen Chris Vizzina play, and I do think, if he is the starter – I think he can hold that position, and I do think Clemson is going to win a lot of games with Vizzina for sure," Manuel said.
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