SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. _ Clemson backup quarterback Chase Brice doesn't live in a bubble.
The redshirt sophomore is well aware that many expect him to transfer after the 2019 season rather than return to Clemson to back up Trevor Lawrence for a third consecutive year in 2020.
The move would be a logical one for Brice, and there are already some schools he is being linked to through social media rumors. But just because there is speculation doesn't mean Brice is on the way out. The Georgia native is only focused on Ohio State.
"I hear things too. I'm like, 'Where did y'all hear that from? I didn't say it.' I'm really just focused on this game Saturday and being committed to the team," Brice said Thursday prior to Clemson's Fiesta Bowl matchup against Ohio State. "It's funny because we don't have social media. We can't post. It's just perception, and ideas pop in people's heads."
Brice has heard the rumors that he could be headed to Georgia, or that he could follow Jeff Scott to USF. He admitted that he believes he is good enough to start for another Power 5 program and he would like more playing time. But he is also enjoying his Clemson experience.
Brice doesn't appear to be rushed at all to make a decision and is likely to continue with Clemson at least through spring practice before he graduates in May.
"I think any quarterback that's had some success is gonna say that and wish they were starting or having more playing time, but sometimes it's just how the process goes. Not everything is going to be perfect," Brice said. "You can't pack your bags and run. It just doesn't work like that. That's not life. Being grounded here and being coached and getting to play with great players, it's been a blessing."
In addition to Lawrence returning next season, Dabo Swinney and Clemson have a former four-star QB recruit on the roster in Taisun Phommachanh, and the Tigers just signed the No. 1 QB for the class of 2020 in D.J. Uiagalelei.
"When you come to a program like Clemson, you know in years to come there's going to be quarterbacks coming in ready to play, compete," Brice said. "I came here because I wanted to be invested in the program. Coach Swinney is one of the top coaches in college football. And then the culture here at Clemson is incredible. Being coached by coach Swinney and the coaches we have on this staff, my teammates, it's been a great three years so far."
As for whether Brice will spend a fourth year in Clemson, it seems that decision is still up in the air. Brice, however, insists fans should ignore rumors and only listen to what he says.
"If you haven't heard anything out of me and my mouth, me saying it, I wouldn't believe it," he said. "I'm here at Clemson. I'm committed and locked in. I'm just focused on Ohio State and that's all I can be focused on. I don't need anybody else to think that I'm wavering and things like that. I'm here and going to be ready when my number's called."
