Tech falls at home to 11th ranked Clemson

In a heated matchup at Lane Stadium, Virginia Tech hosted No. 19 Clemson in front of a sold-out crowd for their second-to-last home game of the season, ultimately falling 24-14.

Both teams brought strong defensive performances, with the Hokies shutting out Clemson in the first half—the Tigers’ first scoreless half since their season opener against No. 2 Georgia. Virginia Tech’s Lunch Pail defense struck first, as Defensive lineman Keyshawn Burgos blocked a punt, setting up true freshman safety Quentin Reddish for a thrilling 77-yard touchdown return to open the scoring.

The Hokies’ defense kept the pressure on with “Sacksburg” in full force, tallying four sacks on Clemson’s offense. STAR Keonta Jenkins and linebacker Sam Brumfield each notched sacks, forcing losses of three and four yards, respectively. Defensive linemen Cole Nelson and Antwaun Powell-Ryland added more damage, with Nelson’s sack causing a 10-yard setback and Powell-Ryland’s 13th sack of the season forcing an eight-yard loss. This total marked the most sacks Clemson has allowed in a game all season.

Safety Jaylin Jones added to the Hokies’ first-half performance with his second career interception, snagged off a Jenkins quarterback hurry and a pass breakup by Mose Phillips III. Virginia Tech carried a 7-0 lead into halftime.

However, Clemson’s offense found its rhythm in the second half, scoring three touchdowns—two in the third quarter and another at the start of the fourth—to pull ahead 21-7. Virginia Tech quarterback Colin Schlee stepped in for Kyron Drones to answer, connecting with wide receiver Ayden Greene on a 14-yard pass to score the Hokies’ second touchdown with just two minutes remaining.

On offense, Virginia Tech’s Da’Quan Felton led the receiving corps with 68 yards, including a 30-yard grab, while tight end Benji Gosnell contributed 33 yards, highlighted by a 23-yard catch. Schlee finished as the team’s rushing leader with 28 yards. Despite the strong defensive showing early on, the Hokies couldn’t reclaim the momentum as Clemson sealed the win in the final quarters.

Virginia Tech is set to face Duke on the road at Wallace Wade Stadium on Saturday, Nov. 23, following a bye open week.