Clemson football: Phommachanh to Georgia Tech, what’s it mean for opener?

Former Clemson football quarterback Taisun Phommachanh finally made a decision on his future Monday, indicating via social media that he would play for Georgia Tech in 2022.

Not only is Georgia Tech a permanent divisional rival for the Tigers, but the teams actually open the 2022 season against each other in Atlanta on Labor Day Night (September 5) at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

Clemson has a new offensive coordinator this year as Brandon Streeter takes over for Tony Elliott, but the offense will remain largely the same with some “tweaks”.

So, maybe one would think this would give Tech some sort of an advantage, having a young man who played quarterback at Clemson last year on their team.

Maybe if the teams were closer in talent level that would be true, but I find it hard to believe that whatever Phommachanh is able to communicate to his new teammates will override the overwhelming physical differences and skill level of the two teams.

Tech is coming off three straight three win seasons and is floundering in their rebuild under Geoff Collins.  Last year’s game was closer than expected, but I don’t see the same thing happening this year as the Tigers began to click (somewhat) offensively in the latter half of 2021.

Whoever the quarterback is for Georgia Tech is likely to be running for his life against a Clemson defense that’s projected to be at the top of the college football heap in 2022.

Phommachanh is a former four star recruit who never really made a dent at Clemson with the talent in front of him, though he did have some good moments running the ball, which will fit right in for the Yellow Jackets.

In his three years with the Tigers, Phommachanh completed 22 of 48 passes (45.8%) for 205 yards, with a touchdown and three interceptions and rushed 30 times for 150 yards and another score.

I’m just happy Phommachanh found a landing spot and wish him the best in the future.