Virginia Tech investigating tampering allegation

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Virginia Tech said Saturday it is investigating allegations by North Carolina Central coach Trei Oliver that a Hokies staff member tried to get his star running back to transfer to the ACC school.

Oliver was one of five coaches of North Carolina football programs who took part Friday in The Bill Dooley Pigskin Preview in Raleigh. With new Tar Heels coach Bill Belichick on his right, Oliver told the story of a Virginia Tech staffer being on the sideline during NC Central’s 26-3 win over Howard on Nov. 15.

Oliver was told the Virginia Tech staff member was there to visit George “Bulldog” Smith, an assistant athletic director at NC Central. He didn’t buy the story.

“Virginia Tech was actually on my sideline recruiting our running back,” Oliver said. “That was pretty bold. I couldn’t believe it.”

Oliver said the running back went on to transfer to Virginia. While he did not name the player, graduate transfer J’Mari Taylor is now on Virginia’s roster.

Virginia Tech, in a statement released Saturday, said Oliver had not reported the potential tampering to the school.

“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,” the statement read. “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.”

In the game against Howard, Taylor ran for 206 yards on 24 carries, scoring three times. He added six receptions for 78 yards. An All-MEAC selection, Taylor ran for 1,146 yards and 15 touchdowns last season.

“Thank God he went to UVA,” Oliver said, making it clear he will be rooting for the Cavaliers when they meet the Hokies in the regular-season finale on Nov. 29.

–Field Level Media