Ohio State Football: Dobbins with a performance to be remembered

As the Ohio State football team fell in gut-wrenching fashion to Clemson, J.K. Dobbins gave a performance that all Buckeye fans will remember.

As Justin Fields threw the late interception in the end zone, effectively ending the season for Ohio State, only one thought ran through my head. J.K. Dobbins gave his all in this game and deserved to be in the national championship.

After injuring his ankle in the first half, Dobbins finished with 18 carries, 174 yards rushing, one touchdown and another 47 receiving yards on six receptions. Dobbins gave a performance that will leave Buckeye fans talking about him long after he’s gone to the NFL.

Yes, he did drop two would-be touchdowns, but without his performance in this game, Ohio State would not have been where they were.

After having come in for one play after halftime and going back to the locker room to get re-taped, it was Dobbins’ fourth-quarter performance that will leave a lasting impression. Getting key receptions and first downs on the last drive of the game, while playing on one leg, gave Ohio State a chance at the end zone. Dobbins gave an all-time gutsy performance.

Even in defeat after the game, Dobbins took to twitter to say this:

"“I know we didn’t get the outcome we wanted, but I love my team and my brothers. Thanks for also being there with us Buckeye nation.”"

That statement alone is what sets Dobbins apart from the rest. A keen understanding that even in defeat, even when robbed of a chance at a national championship by the zebra’s, that the proper way to go about it is with class. That statement prompted ESPN’s Kirk Herbstreit to reply on twitter:

"“You are an unbelievably gifted player w/ a rare & special approach to the game. JK your humility-hard work-& passion are so appreciated. Thank YOU for being YOU & wearing the scarlet & gray w/ such class. Your performance & GUTS last night will always be remembered-Love ya buddy.”"

Could not be said any better than that, Kirk.

Dobbins represented Ohio State with class, dignity and respect. As he is sure to move on to the NFL Draft here soon, it is right to give appreciation to Ohio State’s all-time single-season rushing leader.

With his performance last night, Dobbins surpassed Eddie George for the honor while finishing with 2,003 yards and became the scarlet and gray’s first 2,000-yard back.

Dobbins gave everything he could last night and then some. For his teammates, fans and Buckeye Nation everywhere, we just wish we could see him play in one more final game.