Virginia Tech defeats Clemson 20-16 to secure bowl eligibility

Virginia Tech secured its first bowl eligibility since 2017 with a 20-16 road victory over Clemson at Memorial Stadium. The win marks the Hokies' first victory at Death Valley since 2007.

Trailing 16-13 late in the fourth quarter, Virginia Tech coach James Franklin opted to go for it on fourth-and-1 rather than kicking a field goal. Quarterback Ethan Grunkemeyer subsequently found tight end Luke Reynolds for the decisive touchdown.

Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney took responsibility for the loss, stating the defeat “will leave a scar” because the team failed to capitalize on opportunities to win. The Tigers' offense struggled significantly, managing only 288 total yards and ranking 115th nationally in total offense this season.

Following the loss, Clemson fell to 4-3 overall (2-2 ACC), while Virginia Tech improved to 6-2.