BLACKSBURG – Heading into the second half of Virginia Tech’s homecoming game, the Hokies led Georgia Tech 14-6 as Lane Stadium shook as a maroon-effect crowd fueled the intensity of this exciting matchup. .
After a scoreless first quarter with both defenses holding strong, tight end Benji Gosnell broke the deadlock with a 20-yard touchdown reception from quarterback Kyron Drones. It was Gosnell’s second touchdown of the season and third of his career, giving the Hokies some early momentum. The scoring drive had key moments, including a 14-yard grab by Aiden Green and a career-high 31-yard catch by Gosnell that set up the score.
The Hokies take the lead with a creative twist as wide receiver Jaylin Lane connected with Draughns on a 6-yard touchdown pass, marking Lane’s involvement in four types of touchdowns this season: passing, rushing, receiving and return. spread out. Lane joins Rare Company and becomes the third Hokie to accomplish this feat since 1987.
Running back Beishul Tuten also stood out, with 63 rushing yards and nine receiving yards. The Paulsboro, N.J., native showed off his explosiveness with a 41-yard run that hinted at more big plays to come in the second half.
Defensively, Virginia Tech stifled Georgia Tech’s offense, holding the Yellow Jackets to just two field goals. Late in the first quarter, defensive lineman Wilfried Penne made a critical sack of quarterback Zach Pyron for a loss of five yards, followed by a pass breakup that disrupted Georgia Tech’s rhythm.
Linebacker Caleb Woodson had four tackles and a quarterback rush, and star Keonta Jenkins continued to make an impact with four tackles, including a lost tackle that set the Yellow Jackets back two yards. The Hokies’ defense set the tone early and was poised for success once the second half began.
Georgia Tech starts the third quarter with possession.
