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Hokies Seek Upset vs. Rebuilding Clemson
3 Jul
Summary
- Clemson's new QB, Christopher Vizzina, has limited college experience.
- Virginia Tech has lost its last seven matchups against Clemson.
- Clemson is ranked No. 23 in SP+ rankings despite recent struggles.
Virginia Tech's football team will travel to face Clemson on October 24th, marking the first meeting between the two programs in Clemson since 2012. The Hokies have struggled significantly against the Tigers, losing their last seven matchups dating back to 2007.
Clemson, while not the dominant force of recent years, enters the season ranked No. 23 in the SP+ rankings. Much of their success will depend on the performance of redshirt junior quarterback Christopher Vizzina, who has limited game experience. Last season, Vizzina started one game, throwing for 317 yards and three touchdowns against SMU.
The Tigers' offense features a revamped backfield with Gideon Davidson and SMU transfer Chris Johnson Jr. stepping in after the departure of Adam Randall to the NFL. In the passing game, T.J. Moore and Bryant Wesco Jr. are expected to lead the receiving corps, provided Wesco stays healthy.
Defensively, Clemson returns key players like linebacker Sammy Brown and defensive back Ronan Hanafin. The team's overall trajectory under head coach Dabo Swinney is a significant storyline, with this season potentially indicating whether 2025's struggles were an anomaly or the start of a downturn.
Virginia Tech, which lost to Clemson 24-14 two years ago despite a strong first half, faces an uphill battle. The Hokies' rushing attack was notably weak in their last meeting with Clemson, and they will need a significantly improved performance to challenge the Tigers on the road.
