Parker to start; Korn to see action

The decision answered Clemson's biggest question this summer as the Tigers head into their first full season under coach Dabo Swinney.

"Kyle Parker will be our starting quarterback against Middle Tennessee on Sept. 5," Swinney said after practice Monday morning, according to a release from the school. "Kyle has separated himself from the other quarterbacks. I have been pleased with his progress and he gives us the best chance to be an explosive offense.

Willy Korn has shown great improvement since the spring and deserves to play. He will play against Middle Tennessee and it is my intent to get him into every game this year. I have the utmost confidence that both quarterbacks can lead us to victory," Swinney said.

Parker, who is also a standout baseball player for the Tigers, is considered a redshirt freshman in regards to his football eligibility, but he will be considered a junior in baseball after starting for two seasons as an outfielder. Parker was a first-team All-ACC designated hitter in 2008 when he hit 14 home runs, and he helped the Tigers to the Super Regional in 2009 when he hit 12 home runs. He has yet to play in a collegiate football game, though.

Korn, who has dealt with a nagging shoulder injury over the past two seasons, has played in eight games with one start, the 2009 Georgia Tech game. He is 34-of-49 passing for 316 yards and two touchdowns in those eight games. He has also rushed for two touchdowns in his limited action. Swinney also said he will redshirt true freshman quarterback Tajh Boyd.

"We have three weeks to prepare for an excellent Middle Tennessee team," Swinney said. "The team knows who the first-team quarterback will be and it will allow us to become more of a cohesive offense. Kyle and Willy had been splitting time with the No. 1s and 2s."

Heather Dinich covers college sports for ESPN.com.