Clemson defeats Virginia Tech, 42-35, in ACC Championship

The No. 3 Clemson Tigers defeated No. 23 Virginia Tech, 42-35, in one of the most exciting championship games in ACC history.

The Tigers jumped out to 14-0 lead and the Hokies looked finished. However, the offense fought back, cutting the score to 14-7 and ended up trailing 21-14 at halftime. Unfortunately, it was third down that killed the Hokies all night long. Seemingly every time Tech had Clemson in third and long, either Tigers’ quarterback Deshaun Watson made a big play or VT’s defense committed a penalty.

Virginia Tech quarterback Jerod Evans struggled with his accuracy all night, but continued to make big plays when it mattered the most.

The Hokies had a chance to tie it with a minute remaining, but Evans’ fourth-down throw was picked and that ended Tech’s upset big. Clemson will now head off to the College Football Playoff, while the Hokies will await word on their bowl destination.

A loss hurts, but this team was fun to watch in Justin Fuente’s first season as head coach. Exciting times are ahead in Blacksburg.