North Cross star running back Tyler Caveness revealed last week that he has orally committed to play football at Harvard. Caveness, a senior who had also been recruited by Princeton University, has rushed for 1,512 yards and 18 touchdowns so far this season. As a junior, Caveness ran for 2,518 yards and 26 scores, helping the Raiders capture the VISAA Division III State Championship.
“I never dreamed that I would someday play football at Harvard, but it’s just something that developed,” Caveness said.
Caveness said that the Harvard coaching staff hopes to use him in a variety of ways. “They said they want to use me just like West Virginia uses Noel Divine,” he said. “In the slot, as a receiver and running back, returning kicks, stuff like that. They said they’re expecting me to get on the field as a freshman and make an impact.”
Caveness’ coach at North Cross, Lee Johnson, says the sky is the limit for his stud tailback. “I think he is going to be a huge success at the collegiate level,” Johnson said. “He can do it all, and he has a work ethic that is second to none. The way he handles himself, both on and off the field, he’s been a great model for our younger guys. I’m really excited for him.”
Of course, Harvard’s reputation for academic excellence also helped in Caveness’ decision. “My dad liked it a lot, and I know I’ll get a good education there,” he said. Caveness began his high school career at Cave Spring before transferring to North Cross.
The Crimson, a Division I-AA school, has won two Ivy League championships in a row. Caveness mentioned two other stats that helped sway his decision: over the last 16 years, every graduating senior has won an Ivy League title, and in the last nine years Harvard has had 20 players selected in the NFL Draft.
One of Caveness’ friends might be joining him in the fall as well. Alex Berry, an OT/DT, has also been recruited by the Crimson, though Berry has yet to commit.
By Matt Reeve [email protected]