SMU head coach speaks highly of Clemson, loves what he’s seen from Cade Klubnik

Nov 23, 2024; Charlottesville, Virginia, USA; Southern Methodist Mustangs head coach Rhett Lashlee (center) huddles with players during a stoppage in play in the first half against the Virginia Cavaliers at Scott Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Amber Searls-Imagn Images

SMU head coach Rhett Lashlee showed respect for Clemson football going into Saturday’s ACC Championship Game in Charlotte, talking about the challenges the Tigers present on both sides of the football.

Lashlee talked about the strengths on Clemson’s defense, including its size and power on the defensive line, athletic linebackers and physical, versatile secondary. He said they have no weaknesses on that side of the ball and credited coordinator Wes Goodwin for his schemes.

Offensively, Lashlee praised quarterback Cade Klubnik, whom he recruited while coaching at Miami. He admired Klubnik’s ability to excel as a passer and runner and highlighted his leadership and command of the game. Lashlee also pointed to Clemson’s balanced attack, which features young receivers, tight end Jake Briningstool, offensive tackle Tristan Leigh, and running back Phil Mafah as key contributors to their success.

Lashlee, whose Mustangs finished 8-0 in ACC play during the regular season, sees the matchup as an opportunity to test his team against the league’s gold standard. “What Coach Swinney and Clemson have done is the benchmark for success,” Lashlee said. The Saturday game kicks off at 8 p.m. on ABC as SMU comes in as a slight 2.5-point favorite.

This article originally appeared on Clemson Wire: SMU head coach speaks highly of Clemson, loves what he’s seen from Cade Klubnik

Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/smu-head-coach-speaks-highly-155606050.html

Author : Clemson Wire

Publish date : 2024-12-03 15:56:00

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