Facing a top-10 LSU team loaded with NFL talent, Bryant Wesco’s afternoon was a mix of eye-catching flashes and moments he’ll want back. Clemson’s passing game never fully found its rhythm, but Wesco still managed to impact the game with plays that showcased his explosiveness after the catch, ability to win in contested situations, and route execution in multiple parts of the field. At the same time, a late drop served as a reminder that consistency at the catch point will be key to unlocking his full potential.

This was a measuring-stick game for Cade Klubnik, facing a top-10 LSU defense loaded with NFL-caliber talent. Clemson’s offense struggled to stay on schedule, and the constant mix of pressure and tight coverage forced Klubnik into high-difficulty situations for most of the afternoon. While the box score paints a picture of inconsistency, the tape shows a more nuanced story—one of a quarterback who flashed the tools to succeed but also revealed areas that still need refinement before he can maximize his potential.

Against the #4 Clemson Tigers, Nussmeier delivered a performance defined by efficiency and composure. While the first half didn’t produce fireworks — mostly a steady diet of short completions and ball-control throws — the second half revealed more of what makes him intriguing as a quarterback prospect. He showed the ability to work through reads, navigate pressure, and fit passes into tight windows without making costly mistakes.

There wasn’t a jaw-dropping highlight throw that will make SportsCenter, but there also weren’t mistakes that doomed his team. In a hostile environment against a playoff-caliber defense, he played within himself, executed the game plan, and rose to the occasion when LSU needed him. This was the kind of “grown-up” performance that wins football games, even if it doesn’t light up the box score.

Against a ranked Kansas State defense, Rocco Becht’s performance was a blend of high-value scoring plays and costly mistakes. He accounted for all three Iowa State touchdowns — two through the air and one on the ground — showing touch on deep throws and functional mobility in key moments. However, a first-half sack fumble flipped field position and underscored the need for quicker recognition and better ball security under pressure. The game told a full story of resilience: early success, a mid-game setback, and a strong finish to keep Iowa State competitive.

Against a ranked Kansas State defense, Rocco Becht’s performance was a blend of high-value scoring plays and costly mistakes. He accounted for all three Iowa State touchdowns — two through the air and one on the ground — showing touch on deep throws and functional mobility in key moments. However, a first-half sack fumble flipped field position and underscored the need for quicker recognition and better ball security under pressure. The game told a full story of resilience: early success, a mid-game setback, and a strong finish to keep Iowa State competitive.

Raiola’s performance against Cincinnati highlighted both the promise and the growing pains of a young quarterback. He showed the mobility to navigate pressure, the arm talent to deliver on the move, and the confidence to challenge tight windows. While one poor decision stood out, his ability to respond in key spots and keep the offense moving stood as a positive takeaway.

Emmet Johnson delivered a workhorse performance against Cincinnati, showing patience at the line of scrimmage, the ability to follow blocks, and the strength to finish runs through contact. His balance and leg drive allowed him to consistently pick up extra yards after first contact, and he showed utility as a receiving option out of the backfield. Johnson was effective in both shotgun and under-center formations, producing chunk gains by staying disciplined in his reads and decisive in his cuts.