Virginia Tech secures 42-34 double OT win over California in ACC thriller

Virginia Tech secured a thrilling 42-34 double overtime victory over California, improving to a 3-5 record and 2-2 in the Atlantic Coast Conference. Quarterback Kyron Drones was instrumental, throwing three touchdown passes and rushing for 137 yards and two scores, including the decisive touchdown and two-point conversion in the second overtime. Running back Marcellous Hawkins also had a standout performance with 167 rushing yards. The Hokies overcame a sluggish first half where California scored 20 unanswered points, dominating the second half and overtime with strong offensive and defensive adjustments. Despite some special teams miscues and penalties, Virginia Tech's ground game and clutch plays in overtime secured their first overtime win since 2019. California's Kendrick Raphael scored three touchdowns, and QB Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele threw for 286 yards, but missed late-field goals prevented a comeback.