Overview

• At a Bill Dooley Pigskin Preview on July 25, NC Central coach Trei Oliver said a Virginia Tech assistant coach was on NC Central’s sideline during a November 2024 game to recruit star running back J’Mari Taylor.
• Virginia Tech said it only learned of the allegation Friday and has launched an internal review into its recruiting practices.
• The NCAA prohibits in-game recruiting contacts intended to induce player transfers, forming the basis of Oliver’s tampering claim.
• Taylor, who posted 1,146 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns as a first-team All-MEAC back, entered the transfer portal and joined the University of Virginia.
• The dispute highlights ongoing tensions between HBCUs and Power Five programs over transfer recruiting and adds intrigue to the Virginia-Virginia Tech season finale.