Hokies make the top eight for Keshon Artis

Virginia Tech added its first 2018 Tidewater commitment a couple weeks ago, and the Hokies are hoping for at least one more. So far, so good. Chesapeake (Va.) Oscar Smith linebacker Keshon Artis has named his top eight, with VT still in the hunt.

The Hokies are joined by Duke, Maryland, Missouri, NC State, Syracuse, Tennessee, and West Virginia on the list for the 6-0, 227-pounder. A three-star and the No. 22 rising senior in Virginia, he eliminated the likes of Navy, Rutgers, Temple, and UVa from the contenders for his services.

Artis led his team with 108 total tackles as a junior (26 more than the next-closest player), including 16 for loss with four sacks.He also made two interceptions - returning both for touchdowns - deflected two more passes and forced two fumbles.He contributes on offense as a situational running back, as well.

Oscar Smith has been a consistent producer of talent over the year, with current Hokies Sean Daniel and Deshawn McClease hailing from the 757 powerhouse. VT's 2017 and 2018 classes have seemed to focus much of their attention outside of the state, but it's clear that Justin Fuente and his assistants still want to be a major player in what has traditionally been a hotbed for VT - and national - recruiting.