OSU 2012 Class: Bri’onte Dunn
By Adam
Bri’onte Dunn has been in the papers and recruiting news a LOT. In fact, probably much more than any kid his age would like to see. The main reason behind this isn’t anything bad that he’s done, but basically because he is on the hot seat in the middle of the biggest rivalry in college football. Dunn, a recruit commited to OSU, had made it clear that he was keeping his options open and taking the time to make the right decision for him. There is certainly nothing wrong with that, but when his top two schools and fan bases happen to hate each other’s guts, then it throws some added, unnecessary pressure on top of this young man’s shoulders. With that said, Dunn appears to be happy with his current commitment to OSU — Update: Dustin Fox confirmed last night that Dunn is 150% committed to OSU — and it’s time to introduce this talented running back to our Scarlet & Game readers.
So, who is this Ohio native that could be carrying the rock for OSU very soon?
Height: 6’1”
Weight: 222 lbs
Hometown/School: Canton, OH/GlenOak High School
Position: Running Back
ESPN Scouting Report 06/07/2011:
Dunn is a big, bruising runner with deceptive speed. A prototypical load-back at the college level with the size and power to develop into an every-down workhorse. Tall and layered with great bulk and strength to withstand the between the tackles punishment and break consistent first contact. Shows good urgency out of his stance attacking the hole. Quick to square up and find the downhill seam. A one-cut and get North type of runner who is not going to take a lot of unnecessary cuts. Shows good downhill quickness and burst for a bigger back but displays better than adequate vision and patience when taking the ball off-tackle and following his blocks.
Not real elusive and shows some stiffness through his hips changing direction but he can make subtle cuts through the second level to spring long runs and his overall lateral footwork is more than adequate for his size. His game is built off strength though. A load for smaller DB’s to come up and tackle when he breaks free with built up speed and power. Difficult to tackle high and he will dip the shoulder when needing to get the tough yards and finish runs. A pile mover who consistently falls forward and keeps his legs driving. Can get low for a bigger back and absorb the hit. However, he has the tendency to get tripped up in the second level as well and we would like to see him work on getting his knees up through traffic. Balance is not a great asset. Speed is good for his size but he does not project to be a threat to take it the distance at major college level, more of a between the tackles, downhill grinder who can wear down a defense with strong physical runs. Has proven he can handle high carries and feel he will be most successful in that type of power-running offense. Has above average hands but will need to continue developing as a blocker.
Notes: 2010: Division I All-Ohio First Team selection as a junior…
There is certainly a chance that Bri’onte Dunn will still decide that he’d rather wear the corn and blue next year, but in the meantime, he’s a Buckeye, and I wish him well. It’s true, the facts that you’ll see some M*chigan fans throw out there about Urban Meyer never having a 1,000 yard rusher in his backfield. It’s also true that he’s going to run some variation of the spread offense at Ohio State, and that was an initial concern of Dunn’s. However, one thing that makes players stand out even more than gaudy numbers, is being a part of a winning team, and that is something that Urban Meyer does very well.
Dunn is not a guarantee to walk in the Shoe and start getting carries as a freshman, but he certainly has a chance to get playing time. With the graduation and departure of Boom Herron and potential loss of Jaamal Berry, due to legal issues, Ohio State will be relying on Carlos Hyde and Jordan Hall to get significant touches next year. Dunn, and recruiting classmate Warren Ball, could immediately compete with Hall and Hyde for touches. One bright side of Meyer’s spread offense is that it allows for it’s playmakers, whoever they may be, to get their hands on the ball early and often. If Dunn becomes a consistent, powerful runner, as highlights below show that he can be, then he could very well fill the “big back” mold that Meyer loves. You may remember his other “big back,” Tim Tebow, who played a combination of fullback and quarterback for the Gators under Urban’s scheme. With hard work, this Canton native could be come a major part of OSU’s success over the next few years.
Welcome to Ohio State, Mr. Dunn.
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