Marty Gordon
NRVsports@mainstreetnewspapers.com
News has leaked this weekend a Virginia Tech assistant coach is being accused of tampering in the recruitment of a player from North Carolina Central.
The incident took place in 2024 and involved a running back that was on the active NCC roster. Current Central coach Trei Oliver made the comments during a Pigskin Preview.
Oliver claims the coach was trying to recruit his running back, J’Mari Taylor, into the transfer portal. According to Oliver, the back later transferred to Virginia.
“Virginia Tech was actually on my sideline recruiting my running back. So, thank god they didn’t get him. He went to UVA. He got $400,000 though. $400,000. So, he is starting at UVA now and I hope he kicks Virginia Tech’s butt.”
Taylor shined with the Eagles in 2024 and had the fourth-best season by a running back in school history with 1,146 rushing yards. He was the program’s first 1,000-yard rusher since 2005 and scored at least one touchdown in every game enroute to 15 total.
The Tech assistant has not been identified, but the specific game of record was the Nov. 15 game against Howard.
Virginia Tech released a statement on the matter on Friday.
“This is the first time the issue has been brought to our attention, and no concern has previously been shared with us through any formal channel.”
“Virginia Tech takes all NCAA rules seriously and is committed to conducting our program with integrity. We are reviewing the matter internally and will address any findings appropriately.”
