According to Virginia Tech beat reporter Mike Barber, the Hokies have an added boost in their backfield. Rutgers transfer running back Raheem Blackshear is expected to be eligible for the 2020 football season following the acceptances of his waiver appeal.
Blackshear decided to transfer to Virginia Tech in January; however, last month the NCAA denied his waiver for instant eligibility in 2020. Following an appeal, though, Blackshear will now be on the field for the Hokies.
Hearing that #Hokies have finally gotten some relief from the NCAA. Rutgers transfer Raheem Blackshear's waiver appeal is expected to be granted, making him eligible this season.
— Mike Barber (@RTD_MikeBarber) September 1, 2020
During the 2019 season, Blackshear sat out the final eight games — after he decided to voluntarily redshirt and entered the transfer portal in November. That decision came following changes to the coaching staff with the program.
While at Rutgers, Blackshear recorded 211 carries for 912 yards (4.3 yards per carry) and six touchdowns. The 5-foot-9 running back also caught 80 passes for 810 yards and six touchdowns. Back in the 2018 season, Blackshear was arguably Rutger’s best offensive player; he was named honorable mention All-Big Ten.
Blackshear also spent time returning kicks for the Scarlett Knights.
The addition of Blackshear brings another dimension and increased depth to Virginia Tech’s offense. With Tre Turner, Tayvion Robinson and Evan Fairs at receiver, Blackshear can work into a talented backfield, which includes: Jalen Holston, Keshawn King and Khalil Herbert. This is a lot for quarterback Hendon Hooker to work with in 2020.
Virginia Tech will open the 2020 season at home against Virginia on Sept. 19. The following week, Virginia Tech will host NC State on Sept. 26 — a rescheduled matchup initial set for Sept. 12.
Read More on Raheem Blackshear and Virginia Tech Football
Preseason Predictions: Player of the Year possibilities, Coach of the Year candidates and more