Is Clemson QB Christopher Vizzina underrated? Latest ACC rankings say yes

Chris Vizzina is expected to take over as Clemsonfootball’s starting quarterback this fall, but there’s still plenty of uncertainty surrounding what he’ll look like over a full season. That uncertainty showed up in one national analyst’s latest conference rankings.

On3’s Andy Staples recently evaluated every projected starting quarterback in the ACC ($) and placed Vizzina ninth overall. The Clemson passer is one of several new starters across the league, making this year’s rankings more about potential than proven production.

Staples believes Vizzina has done enough to enter the season as Clemson’s leader under center after waiting behind Cade Klubnik, but he also pointed out that the Tigers’ quarterback competition isn’t necessarily over.

“Christopher Vizzina waited his turn at Clemson behind Cade Klubnik, and based on what Dabo Swinney said throughout the spring, the Alabama native should be the Tigers’ opening-day starter.

“The sample size with Vizzina is small, but he did throw for 317 yards with three touchdowns and no interceptions while replacing an injured Klubnik in a 35-24 loss to SMU last season.

“Vizzina is currently holding off freshman Tait Reynolds, but Vizzina likely will have to play well early, Clemson opens at LSU, to ensure he keeps the job. Cole Stoudt and Kelly Bryant will attest that Swinney will go to a talented freshman if necessary.”

The ranking reflects where Vizzina stands entering August. He has shown flashes, particularly in his performance against SMU last season, but he has yet to build an extended body of work. Across three seasons, he’s attempted just 105 passes while spending most of his career as Klubnik’s backup.

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Dabo Swinney said after spring practice that Vizzina exited camp in the “pole position,” though freshman Tait Reynolds remains firmly in the mix heading into preseason camp. Clemson opens the season with a major test at LSU, giving Vizzina an immediate opportunity to strengthen his grip on the starting job.

Staples’ rankings were topped by Miami quarterback Darian Mensah, while Cal’s Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele and SMU’s Kevin Jennings rounded out the top three. NC State’s C.J. Bailey and Pitt’s Mason Heintschel completed the top five, with Louisville’s Lincoln Kienholz, Syracuse’s Steven Angeli, Virginia Tech’s Ethan Grunkemeyer and Virginia’s Beau Pribula also making the list alongside Vizzina.

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This article originally appeared on Clemson Wire: Is Clemson QB Christopher Vizzina underrated? Latest ACC rankings say yes