Luke Fickell has big chance to steal star Virginia Tech DB after coaching shake-up

Virgina Tech fires Brent Pry and players are jumping in the portal.
Jan 3, 2025; Charlotte, NC, USA; Virginia Tech Hokies cornerback Dante Lovett (1)  runs after his interception against the Minnesota Golden Gophers during the second half at the Duke’s Mayo Bowl at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images
Jan 3, 2025; Charlotte, NC, USA; Virginia Tech Hokies cornerback Dante Lovett (1) runs after his interception against the Minnesota Golden Gophers during the second half at the Duke’s Mayo Bowl at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images | Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images

In the aftermath of the Virginia Tech firing of Brent Pry, the transfer portal opened for Hokies players to find a new school immediately. One of those players, Dante Lovett, who's one of the best defensive backs on the roster, has decided to jump in the portal and find a new home. Luke Fickell and Wisconsin are pouncing and trying to get him to Madison.

Lovett is a 6'0, 200 lb junior cornerback with 36 career tackles, seven pass deflections, and one interception. He's one of the starting cornerbacks for the Hokies and would be a big grab for any team. Wisconsin is hoping to shore up some of the passing woes they have with Lovett, though there's a catch.

If Dante Lovett transfers, can he play for Wisconsin immediately?

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The NCAA prohibits a player from playing for two different schools during the same football season. So, while Lovett would be a big grab for Luke Fickell, it would be for next season, not this one. He's already started and played in every game this season for the Hokies, recording three tackles.

There's hope that Wisconsin can grab a player of Lovett's caliber, but it wouldn't help immediately, which is too bad. The Badgers need help in the passing game right now. They have one of the best run defenses in the country, but two different teams have now found tremendous success in the passing game. Alabama shredded the Badgers for 382 yards. Crimson Tide quarterback Ty Simpson had a field day.

That being said, what are the chances Lovett considers Wisconsin? Well, it's hard to know, as Wisconsin is one of about 25 schools in contact with him, but since Nakos mentioned the Badgers along with Nebraska, Colorado, and Florida State, it seems as if those may be higher on Lovett's list.

It will be a story to watch and would immediately help the team for next season.