Hokies make Tyler Friday's cut

Virginia Tech is hot on the trail of New Jersey defensive tackle Tyler Friday, and the Hokies remain in the hunt for his services after the four-star trimmed his list last night.

The No. 3 strongside defensive end and No. 38 overall player in the nation also kept Alabama, Boston College, Georgia, Miami, Michigan, Michigan State, Nebraska, North Carolina, Ohio State, Penn State, Rutgers, Syracuse, Tennessee, and UCLA in the hunt as he reduced the number of suitors in the mix to 15. UConn, West Virginia, and Wisconsin are among the programs he eliminated from the running.

Friday, of Ramsey (N.J.) Don Bosco Prep, could be the sort of player who helps expand the Hokies' reach into New Jersey. The coaches have signed one player from the Garden State in each of the past three classes - and the 2014 group contained a pair, including Bosco grad Tyrell Smith, who is in line to start up front after a strong spring session.

Friday has consistently mentioned a desire to visit Blacksburg, but has been as-yet unable to make the trip. He is expecting to rectify that at some point this Summer.