Virginia Tech Football: 3 takeaways from dominating win over Wake Forest

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Oct 14, 2023; Blacksburg, Virginia, USA; Wake Forest Demon Deacons quarterback Michael Kern (15) throws a pass against Virginia Tech Hokies defensive lineman Antwaun Powell-Ryland (52) during the fourth quarter at Lane Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Peter Casey-USA TODAY Sports /

Virginia Tech’s defense was dominating

It was well publicized all week the struggles that Wake Forest’s offense was having this season. Coach Dave Clawson’s team came into the game averaging six points less a game this season than they did in 2022 at 25 per game through the first five weeks. They scored just 12 last week in a five-point loss at Clemson.

Chris Marve’s defense got after the Demon Deacons early and often. The Hokies finished with seven sacks, four by Antwaun Powell-Ryland, Keonta Jenkins finished with 12 tackles, six solo, and Alan Tisdale had nine. They forced three turnovers, two fumbles, and a Derrikc Canteen interception. As a unit, they finished with 13 tackles for loss.

Wake Forest starting quarterback Mitch Griffis was replaced in the second quarter by Michael Kern. The Demon Deacons rushed for just 19 yards and racked up 243 yards through the air and their best drive at the end of the first half was aided by a questionable face mask call, but they had to settle a field goal.

The Demon Deacons’ only touchdown came from a 99-yard kickoff return in the second quarter, but for the second straight home game, the Hokies defense dominated their opponent. Two weeks ago they did it to Pittsburgh before doing it again to Wake Forest on Saturday.

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