Virginia Tech delivers on a fourth-quarter comeback Saturday night, defeating Clemson 20-16 at Memorial Stadium after quarterback Ethan Grunkemeyer connected with tight end Luke Reyonolds. The victory was Virginia Tech’s first win over Clemson since 2007. This gave the Hokies a big boost in the Atlantic Coast Conference play. Virginia Tech improved to 6-2 and 3-2 in ACC play, while Clemson fell to 4-3 and 2-2 in conference play.
Photo Cred: Yahoo Sports
Virginia Tech struck first in the opening quarter when kicker John Love made a 37-yard field goal. Clemson answered with a field goal of their own in the second quarter, but the Hokies reclaimed the lead before halftime. With just over a minute remaining in the second quarter, Grunkemeyer connected with Reynolds for a 6-yard touchdown pass. The score was 10-3 heading into halftime. Clemson responded with a strong third quarter to take control of the game.
Kicker Nolan Hauser scored two field goals, and quarterback Tait Reynolds scored on a 16-yard rushing touchdown. The Tigers put up 13 consecutive points to take a 16-10 lead entering the fourth quarter. The Hokies continued to battle. Love made a 47-yard field goal with just under 12 minutes. Virginia Tech’s defense came up clutch with crucial stops to give the offense another opportunity. Grunkemeyer and the offense did just that leading an 11-play drive for 69 yards that ended with the game winning touchdown.
Facing fourth and 1, Grunkemeyer found Reynolds for a 5-yard touchdown pass. Clemson had 1:44 left to respond to the Hokies who held a 20-16 lead. Clemson had one final opportunity, but the Hokies defense handled business. A third down completion was overturned after review. Mylachi Williams then sacked Tait Reynolds on fourth down to seal the Hokies victory. Grunkemeyer finished 20-32 passing for 156 yards and two touchdowns. Reynolds caught seven passes for 44 yards and Virginia Tech’s only two touchdowns.
Photo Cred: SI
Tait Reynolds threw for 153 yards and created 63 rushing yards for a touchdown. This win gives the Hokies a lot of momentum heading into the rest of their conference schedule. The Hokes will look to carry that momentum into their next matchup against SMU, while Clemson will look to rebound against Florida State.
