Virginia Tech Defeats Clemson 20-16 on Fourth‑and‑Goal Play

Virginia Tech defeated Clemson 20-16 on Saturday night, Oct. 24, 2026, at Memorial Stadium in Clemson, South Carolina.

The Hokies' winning touchdown came on a fourth‑and‑goal play with 1:44 remaining, when quarterback Ethan Grunkemeyer connected with Luke Reynolds for a 5‑yard score.

The play gave Virginia Tech a 20-16 lead that held for the final minute.

Clemson's final drive ended on fourth down after defensive end Mylachi Williams sacked quarterback Tait Reynolds for an 8‑yard loss, resulting in a turnover on downs with 48 seconds left.

Earlier in the fourth quarter, Clemson had moved into Virginia Tech territory, but a review overturned a long completion to Bryant Wesco Jr., leaving the Tigers facing fourth‑and‑9 at the Clemson 49.

Virginia Tech entered the game with a 5-2 overall record and a 2-2 ACC record; Clemson entered with a 4-2 overall record and a 2-1 ACC record.

After the victory, Virginia Tech improved to 6-2 overall and 3-2 in ACC play.

Clemson finished with a 4-3 overall record and 2-2 ACC record after the loss.

Virginia Tech quarterback Ethan Grunkemeyer was sacked six times during the game but still threw the decisive touchdown.

Clemson quarterback Tait Reynolds completed 20 of 26 passes for 153 yards and also rushed 18 times for 63 yards, including a 16‑yard rushing touchdown in the third quarter.

Clemson wide receiver Tyler Brown led the team with eight receptions for 62 yards, and kicker Nolan Hauser was perfect on three field‑goal attempts.

Virginia Tech cornerback Jaquez White recorded a game‑high 11 tackles.

Clemson defensive end Will Heldt recorded four tackles, two sacks and two tackles for loss.

The win secured bowl eligibility for Virginia Tech.