Quarterback Cade Klubnik, Clemson commit, exits early due to injury
AUSTIN, Texas — In the second quarter of Westlake’s win over Bowie, Cade Klubnik was carted off the sideline by trainers, in what can be described as a nerve-racking moment for Chaparral fans. The injury appeared to occur on a trick play in which Klubnik caught a pass, then ran down inside the 5-yard line before being tackled and landing on his shoulder out of bounds, just short of a touchdown.
“The victory came with a price,” Westlake head coach Todd Dodge said. “Klubnik was removed after being tackled midway through the second quarter.” Coach Dodge’s medical staff informed him that his quarterback separated his left (non-throwing) shoulder and might miss a pair of games.
“The entire team breathed a sigh of relief when informed Klubnik should return before the regular season is over,” he added. “The good Lord was looking over us on that one.”
Don’t worry Chaparral fans, and Clemson fans, you can breathe.
Despite the initial scare, the coaching and medical staff are hopeful their 5-star commit will return before the end of the regular season, which comes just in time for Westlake to make a push deep into the Texas state playoffs.
Prior to the injury, Klubnik was having another solid game, having thrown a 93-yard touchdown pass and having one rushing touchdown. On the season, he has thrown 20 total touchdown passes to only two interceptions and over 1,400 passing yards in six games.
The Westlake Chaparrals are undefeated with a 6-0 record with four games left on their regular season schedule. Westlake, currently ranked No. 3 in national polls and No. 2 in Texas polls, has high expectations going into the playoffs with Klubnik behind center. Although they will likely be without their starter, Westlake should have the firepower to handle their competition over the next few weeks. Westlake’s next three opponents include Hays High, Akins High and Austin High, all of which have a combined record of 7-11.
However, the Chaparrals face another Texas powerhouse, Lake Travis, in their final game of the regular season. Although the final matchup of the regular season will have little implications on the postseason, both teams will be competing for bragging rights, as well as momentum going into the playoffs.
Westlake High School is striving for their fourth Texas State Championship and Klubnik is a crucial key to achieving that goal. If Klubnik can return in good health, the Chaparrals will be one of the toughest teams to beat in the state. Westlake is outscoring opponents 301-54, and their defense has shutout their last two opponents.
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