Instant Lookback: Virginia Tech vs. Minnesota

CHARLOTTE N.C. – The Duke’s Mayo Bowl is underway, with the Virginia Tech Hokies trailing the Minnesota Golden Gophers 21-10 in a tightly contested battle. Despite the deficit, the Hokies are fueled by a sea of loyal fans who made the trip, eager to see their team finish the 2024 season on a high note. All eyes remain on the action—and the game’s quirky tradition of the winning coach receiving the signature mayo shower.   

Tech struck first late in the opening quarter with a pair of standout plays. Quarterback Colin Schlee connected on a season-best 67-yard pass to wide receiver Ayden Greene, setting up Schlee’s 3-yard rushing touchdown to give the Hokies an early 7-0 advantage. Greene has been the offensive spark, leading the receiving corps with five catches for 104 yards as the game heads into the second half.  

Fresh faces have also made their presence felt on offense. True freshman running back Tyler Mason has contributed five carries for 27 yards, converting crucial short-yardage plays. Fellow freshman wide receiver Keylen “Brodie” Adams made his first career reception, a 14-yard grab from quarterback William “Pop” Watson. Watson has been rotating with Schlee, giving Virginia Tech’s offense a fresh dynamic under center. 

On special teams, cornerback Jonathan Pennix made a pivotal play early in the first quarter, recovering a muffed punt for his first career fumble recovery and providing a much-needed momentum boost. Kicker John Love also nailed a career-high 60-yard field goal, the second-longest in school history and the longest in Duke’s Mayo Bowl history.

Defensively, the Hokies have seen strong performances from their veteran linebackers. Jaden Keller, Caleb Woodson and Kaleb Spencer have each logged three tackles, with Woodson adding a pass breakup. Redshirt freshman cornerback Thomas Williams leads the team with a career-high four tackles. 

Minnesota will start with possession in the second half.