Hokies fall 24-10 to Minnesota in the Duke’s Mayo Bowl

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – The Duke’s Mayo Bowl has concluded, with Virginia Tech falling to Big Ten opponent Minnesota 24-10. Despite the loss, the Hokies set multiple special teams records for the bowl and showcased a promising group of new players, offering a glimpse of optimism for the 2025 season. 

Virginia Tech struck first in the contest with a highlight-reel 67-yard pass from quarterback Colin Schlee to wide receiver Ayden Greene—Tech’s longest pass of the season. That play set up Schlee’s 3-yard rushing touchdown, giving the Hokies an early 7-0 advantage. Greene finished the game with a career-high 115 receiving yards on six catches, a standout performance in the Hokies’ passing game. 

Offensively, freshmen made a significant impact. Running back Tyler Mason led the ground attack with 35 yards on seven carries, while fellow freshman wide receiver Keylen Adams contributed with a 14-yard reception and a 47-yard rush in the second half, helping to provide some momentum late in the game. 

Special teams were also a highlight for Virginia Tech. Kicker John Love converted a career-high 60-yard field goal, setting a new Duke’s Mayo Bowl record for the longest field goal in the bowl’s history. Punter Peter Moore also made his mark, launching a career-best 69-yard punt, the longest in program history for postseason action. Cornerback Jonathan Pennix was another special teams standout, recovering a muffed punt in the first quarter for his first career fumble recovery, adding to the Hokies’ momentum early on. 

Defensively, cornerback Dante Lovett came up with his first career interception late in the second quarter, returning it 17 yards while adding six tackles. Linebacker Kaleb Spencer led the defense with eight tackles, including one for a loss of two yards. Honorary Lunch Pail carrier Wilfried Pene recorded the Hokies’ only sack of the game, a nine-yard loss on Minnesota quarterback Max Brosmer.

While the Hokies couldn’t secure the win, the performances from both veterans and emerging players offered plenty of promise for the future, leaving fans excited for the 2025 season.