Clemson did everything it could to lose this game in the first half. However, by the time the clock hit zero, the Tigers virtually emptied Lane Stadium.
All the mistakes were left in the first half for Clemson, marching down the field four times for a score. Compared to the first half, the Tigers gained 70 more yards of offense, including three touchdown passes to Cole Turner, Jake Briningstool, and an incredible one to Tyler Moore.
Of course, the defense was spectacular. It has struggled against the run all season long to more inferior opponents than Virginia Tech. However, Clemson held the third-best ground game in the conference to 40 yards. The Tigers gave up a score late, but by that time, it was too late for a Hokies' comeback.
Next week, Clemson has a harder test. It travels to Pittsburgh to face a Pitt team with only one loss to SMU. The Tigers can't afford to have a night like tonight. The Panthers will take advantage of the mistakes, unlike Virginia Tech.