CLEMSON, S.C. — Virginia Tech football ventured to Memorial Stadium for the first time since 2012, defeating Clemson 20-16 and garnering its first victory against the Tigers since the 2007 season. The Hokies trailed 16-13 in the final frame, though a go-ahead touchdown to Luke Reynolds with 1:44 to go provided Tech with enough firepower to earn its sixth victory of 2026. Here are my three immediate takeaways from Saturday night's back-and-forth affair:

No. 1: Saturday was among Grunkemeyer's weakest games of the season, though the Hokies found a way.

Virginia Tech Hokies quarterback Ethan Grunkemeyer (17) passes a ball despite pressure from Clemson defensive tackle Champ Thompson (29) and defensive end Jahiem Lawson (15) during the second quarter at Memorial Stadium Saturday, October 24, 2026. | USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect

Grunkemeyer absorbed a season-high six sacks and threw for only 79 first-half yards. Midway through the third quarter, Virginia Tech's runs went for only 1.6 yards per carry.…