Tabari Hines Excited About Final Season
NC State graduate wide receiver Tabari Hines talks with Inside Pack Sports about the upcoming season and his potential role in the offense.
Do you remember the last time you played at Carter-Finley?
I do. It was my first 100 yard game. Even though we lost, it was great to get the 100 yards. I would’ve rather had the win, but it was a nice moment.
What’s your mindset headed into this year?
My mindset is to get everything I can get out of it and have fun. I used to take it as a job and not something that was fun; now I want to make sure I have fun while I’m doing it. Whatever happens, happens.
How did you end up at NC State?
I had to transfer with a waiver to get another year. Any school had to put in a waiver otherwise they could lose a scholarship. This was a school that was an immediate connection and willing to do the waiver and the process went through, so I took it and ran with it. I graduated from Wake Forest in three years, Oregon was my fourth, and this is my fifth. I got a medical redshirt for last year.
Which knee was banged up?
My left knee. I had a scope – a small surgery. It limited my mobility. I was stiff and couldn’t move how I know I can. Now I’m over that hump and my flexibility is back.
How was your Oregon experience?
It was a great experience. I tell these guys it was a great experience because it was a nice place to be, good coaching staff. College football is good everywhere and they were a marquee place.
What was it like sitting out last year?
It was difficult because it was a school I dreamed of going to. I finally got a chance and got hurt. I wouldn’t say it was a low point in life, but being there taught me a lot of things. Allowing people to be around me really helped me out.
How much experience do you have as kick returner and punt returner?
I have two years of punt returns and my junior year I returned kick. I will definitely plan on helping on special teams this year.
Was there any awkwardness returning to NC State?
Some of the guys may have thought I would talk about it, but I don’t like to talk about it or when other people talk about it. The past is the past and we get a laugh sometimes.
Have you ever talked to Chris Ingram about it?
We are good friends now. He’s way better now than he was then. He’s a real good player. I didn’t know he was a true freshman, just that he hadn’t played there that year. Anytime somebody is in a new spot, you test them out.
Are you looking forward to going back to Wake Forest this year?
Definitely looking forward to it. It’s going to be surreal in that stadium and against my old teammates. Business is business and we need a win.
Why did you leave Wake?
There were a couple issues. I wanted to go a different direction and help my career out. I needed new scenery and a new experience. I had hit a wall and wanted to explore other options.