Houshun Gaines verbally committed to Virginia Tech on December 20, while at the North Carolina/South Carolina Shrine Bowl. The Hokies, led by primary recruiter Charley Wiles, offered in April of 2014 and were consistent in their interest in the 6’4”, 225-pound defensive end.

“Virginia Tech recruited me a long time. It helped a lot that my position coach recruited me,” said Gaines, a senior out of Nash Central High in Rocky Mount, North Carolina.

Tech’s defense, in need of defensive ends in the class of 2015, was also an important factor in Gaines’ decision.

“It’s a lockdown defense,” Gaines said. “I feel like the way they use their ends fits me. They like my speed and pass-rushing.”

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