Virginia Tech football: Cam Phillips set for record-breaking season

Senior Cam Phillips is expected to have a big season for the Virginia Tech Hokies. With the losses of Isaiah Ford and Bucky Hodges, Phillips goes from Tech’s No. 3 target to the top guy. And he’ll line up all over the place from the outside to the slot.

After some rough stretches early in his career, Phillips came on last season and showed coaches he’s ready to be the guy.

Ford essentially rewrote Virginia Tech’s receiving record book. Phillips, barring injury, should break a number of Ford’s records. Ford finished his career with 210 receptions, Phillips currently has 165. That’s easily attainable. Ford had 2,967 career receiving yards. Phillips stands 2,063. That record, too, is within reach.

Ford’s 24 career touchdowns do appear a bit out of Phillips’ reach. Phillips, with 10 career touchdown receptions, would need 14 just to tie Ford. Possible, sure, but not likely. The single-season touchdown reception record is also held by Ford, with 11, which he set in 2015.

Playing alongside Ford and Hodges, Phillips never received a lot of attention. At the ACC Kickoff event in July, the senior receiver made sure that changed. Phillips’ outfit was the talk of the event and when questioned about it, Phillips admitted he wanted to let his personality shine a little, per Mike Barber of the Richmond Times-Dispatch.

I just like to have fun with stuff like this. I think it's a way to show my personality, show fans, other players how kind of a laid-back and fun, cool guy I am. I'm having a great time at this event.

Mission accomplished.

Phillips should see a record number of targets this season with freshman Josh Jackson under center. The young quarterback is going to go with who he trusts, and that will be Phillips.