The complexion of the showdown between the top teams in the division changed drastically after Virginia Tech quarterback Josh Jackson threw an interception late in the third quarter.

Safety Jaquan Johnson stepped in front of Jackson's pass for his second interception this season, and the Hurricanes scored three plays later on quarterback Malik Roiser's 13-yard run for the final margin.

A takeaway by the Virginia Tech defense, which allowed 430 total yards, led to Jackson's one-yard run that whittled the deficit to 14-10 with 11:39 to play in the third quarter, giving the Hokies a brief glimmer of hope.

Homer ran through a gaping hole in the middle of the field and avoided three defenders on his way to the end zone, providing the late-arriving crowd of 65,326 at Hard Rock Stadium the offensive highlight of the first half.

McIntosh wore the gaudy 10-karat gold rope adorned with an oversized charm in the shape and colors of the Hurricanes logo, keeping with a tradition started this season after every Miami takeaway.