Ford, Stanford defense propel Cardinal to 40-22 victory over Virginia Tech

In a hard-fought victory, Stanford's Cardinal defeated Virginia Tech 40-22 on Saturday at the College Park. Quarterback Micah Ford led the scoring with 149 rushing yards and three touchdowns, while Stanford's defense forced three turnovers. This marked the Cardinal's first win in an ACC game since joining the league, ending a 15-game road losing streak that was the longest in school history.

Virginia Tech (6-4, 3-4), as 15.5-point favorites, entered the game but failed to protect their quarterback and turned the ball over three times in the first half, falling behind 21-0. Stanford's defense, ranked last in the ACC in scoring defense and total defense, sacked Virginia Tech's Ethan Grunkemeyer five times and held the Hokies to 398 total yards.

Stanford safety Charlie Eckhardt was instrumental, causing all three turnovers and leading to Stanford's first score, a 16-yard touchdown run by quarterback Davis Warren. Stanford's defense sacked Grunkemeyer five times and limited the Hokies to 398 total yards, showcasing an impressive performance against a Power 4 team.