Price came to WVU originally as a quarterback, but he played in the defensive secondary on the freshman team in 1973. He was the leading kickoff return and punt return man on the squad. During his sophomore year (1974), Price was listed behind Danny Buggs and John Everly as a flanker. In 1976, he was the number three flanker behind Tom Bowden and Mike Austin. He had a good spring training that year. He majored in business management. He was selected All-Suburban Philadelphia and honorable mention All-American at Charleston Catholic High School. Coach Cignetti mentioned that, "Sterling has fine speed, but must develop more consistency in catching the ball."