Clemson’s win over Charleston Southern offered a chance to regroup. Saturday’s matchup with Virginia Tech should reveal more about whether the Tigers can turn that performance into something sustainable.

At 4-2 overall and 2-1 in ACC play, Clemson still has an opportunity to make a push in the conference standings. But after decisive losses to LSU and Miami, the Tigers have plenty left to prove against opponents capable of challenging them on both sides of the ball.

The Hokies fit that description. Virginia Tech brings a 5-2 record into Death Valley after beating Georgia Tech, with its two losses coming in conference play. Quarterback Ethan Grunkemeyer gives Clemson’s defense a significant test, entering Saturday with 1,984 passing yards to lead the ACC.

Keeping that passing attack in check would help ease the burden on a Clemson offense still searching for consistency.

Tait Reynolds continues to gain experience, but the freshman quarterback’s development needs to translate into more scoring opportunities. Clemson leaned on its running game against Charleston Southern, with Gideon Davidson and Chris Johnson Jr. helping the Tigers produce three rushing touchdowns. Getting that group going again could be especially valuable against a Virginia Tech team capable of moving the ball.

For Clemson, this is a chance to begin building a stronger second-half résumé and avoid another setback in the ACC race. The Tigers have controlled this series for more than a decade, winning seven consecutive meetings.

Will that success continue Saturday? Our staff weighs in with its score predictions for Clemson’s matchup against Virginia Tech.

Alex Turri: Clemson 27, Virginia Tech 21

This could be a season defining game for the Tigers and they get it in front of the home crowd. This game is going to come down to which offense can find a way to get things done in the passing game, which on paper favors the Hokies… but have they seen a secondary like the Tigers? I don’t think so.

Tait Reynolds breakout game incoming! Clemson gets the edge after a strong performance from the freshman quarterback.

Steve Holley: Clemson 20, Virginia Tech 24

Nolan Hauser has arguably been the Tigers' most valuable player on offense this season, making 15 of his 16 field goal tries. That's nice, but Clemson's struggles throwing the ball place them near the bottom of Power Four teams in most passing categories. Tait Reynolds could use a big game, but some of the dropped passes and the Tigers' well-documented offensive line struggles make it challenging.

The O-line will be going against a Virginia Tech defense that ranks fifth nationally in sacks. The Tigers' defense should be able to challenge QB Ethan Grunkemeyer. Clemson will have a chance to win, and home field advantage should never be discounted, but the Hokies put together a late drive and send the Tigers to their third loss.