Clemson coach Dabo Swinney on Chris Denson’s future at quarterback
Clemson football’s spring practice answered at least one major question for Clemson… who’s truly in the quarterback race.
According to Dabo Swinney, that list is down to two.
“I mean, we came out of spring, CV’s one, and Tait’s two, and it’s not close,” Swinney said. “Those two guys separated, and that’s where we are.”
Christopher Vizzina leaves the spring still holding the top spot, while Tait Reynolds locked down the No. 2 role after making a strong push following spring break. Clemson coaches saw enough growth to move him clearly ahead of the rest of the group.
“He was the lead horse coming in, and he still got the pole position,” Swinney said. “But Tait, we made that decision after the break. I mean, he is clearly number two and has just separated. And so I’ve been really proud of him. He’s done a lot of work, and he’s got an elite arm talent, and he’s big and strong. He may have forgotten a couple of motions today, and there are some operational things he’s gotta keep getting better at, but he just got better and better and better. So we’re coming out of spring with some clarity, and I think we needed that.”
Behind them, the depth chart still has some movement. Freshman Brock Bradley appears to be next in line, with Trent Pearman close behind.
Chris Denson’s situation is the most intriguing. Limited reps in the spring game — along with a 2-for-5, three-yard outing — reflect where he currently stands. While his athletic ability stands out, his development as a passer has created some distance.
“Well, absolutely, we could, but he’s got buy-in to that, and I think he’ll have some decisions to make,” Swinney said. “But if he stays at quarterback, he’ll help our football team. There ain’t no doubt about it, he’ll help us. Because again, he’s got a unique skill set that we can use. But just limited in the pass game right now with where he is developmentally.”
Now the focus shifts ahead. Vizzina enters the summer with the edge, but Reynolds has put himself firmly in the conversation.
“Everybody’s got to show up, everybody’s got to earn it,” Swinney said. “CV, he hadn’t done anything to back up, but Tait’s done everything to move forward. There was a bunch of guys kind of battling for that second spot. And he cleared that, and he came out of that smoke first with that group. And so now, he’s got a big summer ahead, he’s just gonna keep getting better. I don’t think CV’s gonna go backwards. So be a great competitive summer in fall camp, and then you go play games.”
Going into fall camp, Clemson may not have every answer, but at quarterback, the picture is much easier to read.
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This article originally appeared on Clemson Wire: Clemson HC Dabo Swinney on Chris Denson’s future after Spring Game
