Hokies Deliver Dramatic Comeback in Death Valley
The Virginia Tech Hokies pulled off one of their biggest victories of the season Saturday night, defeating the Clemson Tigers 20-16 at Memorial Stadium. Quarterback Ethan Grunkemeyer connected with tight end Luke Reynolds for the game-winning touchdown with 1:44 remaining, completing a late comeback and handing Virginia Tech its first win over Clemson since 2007.
The victory improved the Hokies to 6-2 overall and 3-2 in ACC play, making them bowl eligible. Head coach James Franklin’s team showed tremendous resilience after struggling offensively for much of the second half, finding a way to escape Death Valley with a statement victory.
Clemson, meanwhile, fell to 4-3 overall and 2-2 in conference play. The loss was another frustrating result for the Tigers as they continue searching for consistency during the 2026 season.
Virginia Tech Takes First Half Advantage
Both teams struggled to establish their offenses early, but Virginia Tech managed to strike first. Kicker John Love connected on a 37 yard field goal late in the opening quarter to give the Hokies a 3-0 advantage.
Clemson responded with a field goal from Nolan Hauser early in the second quarter, tying the game at three. However, Virginia Tech put together its best offensive drive of the first half just before halftime.
The Hokies marched 87 yards on a 17-play possession, with Grunkemeyer finding Reynolds for a touchdown to give Virginia Tech a 10-3 lead heading into the break.
The lengthy drive was particularly important for an offense that struggled to generate explosive plays throughout the evening.
Clemson Takes Control After Halftime
The Tigers came out of the locker room with renewed energy and completely shifted the momentum in the third quarter.
Hauser connected on a pair of field goals, cutting into Virginia Tech’s advantage before Clemson finally found the end zone. Quarterback Tait Reynolds broke free for a 16-yard rushing touchdown, giving the Tigers their first lead at 13-10.
Another Hauser field goal extended Clemson’s advantage to 16-10 heading into the fourth quarter. The Tigers had controlled the third period, outgaining Virginia Tech 146-13, and appeared positioned to close out the victory.
However, the Hokies refused to go away.
Love connected on a 47 yard field goal early in the fourth quarter, cutting Clemson’s lead to 16-13 and setting up a dramatic finish.
Reynolds Delivers the Game Winning Touchdown
With time running down, Grunkemeyer led Virginia Tech on an 11 play, 69 yard drive that ultimately decided the game. Facing a critical fourth down, the quarterback delivered a five yard touchdown pass to Reynolds with 1:44 remaining, putting the Hokies ahead 20-16.
Clemson still had an opportunity to respond, but Virginia Tech’s defense came through when it mattered most. After a potential long completion to Bryant Wesco Jr. was overturned on replay, defensive lineman Mylachi Williams sacked Tait Reynolds on fourth down to seal the victory.
Grunkemeyer finished with 156 passing yards and two touchdowns, both to Luke Reynolds. Clemson’s Reynolds threw for 153 yards and added a rushing touchdown.
Virginia Tech now turns its attention to SMU after a bye week, while Clemson will look to bounce back against Florida State. For the Hokies, Saturday’s comeback was a memorable milestone and a major boost to their postseason hopes.
