Why Virginia Tech HC James Franklin didn’t go for the tie vs. Clemson down 16-13 appeared first on ClutchPoints. Add ClutchPoints as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Virginia Tech football secured a dramatic 20-16 victory over Clemson on Saturday night, extending head coach James Franklin’s winning streak to two games. However, after the game, Franklin explained why he chose not to settle for a field goal and instead went for it on fourth-and-1 from the five-yard line while trailing 16-13.
During his postgame press conference, Franklin made it clear that he had considered kicking the field goal but ultimately believed an aggressive approach offered the best chance to take the lead.
“It did enter my mind to kick the field goal,” Franklin said. “I just felt like the momentum was probably on their side. You’re on the road in a tough environment.”
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“Just felt like 4th and 1 is as good a situation that we were going to get,” he added.
The decision proved successful as quarterback Ethan Grunkemeyer found tight end Luke Reynolds for a five-yard touchdown with 1:44 left on the clock, putting Virginia Tech ahead 20-16. The Hokies’ defense then shut down Clemson’s final possession to seal the victory.
Clemson had one final chance to answer after Virginia Tech took the lead. Quarterback Tait Reynolds tried to move the Tigers into scoring position and completed a 26-yard pass to Bryant Wesco Jr. on third down. However, officials overturned the reception following a replay review, ruling that Wesco had failed to keep his feet inbounds.
The overturned call left Clemson facing fourth-and-9, and Virginia Tech defensive lineman Mylachi Williams brought Reynolds down for a sack. The defensive stop forced a turnover on downs, ending the Tigers’ hopes of mounting a late comeback.
The victory improved Virginia Tech’s record to 6-2 overall and 3-2 in ACC play. The Hokies also secured bowl eligibility in Franklin’s first season as head coach. Meanwhile, Clemson dropped to 4-3 overall and 2-2 in conference play.
The result was especially significant for Virginia Tech, which had not beaten Clemson since 2007. It also marked the first loss of Dabo Swinney’s career against the Hokies.
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