Ohio State Football: What to expect from Buckeye running backs

Replacing one of the greatest running backs to play Ohio State football is no small task. Are the Buckeyes in trouble relying on a graduate transfer and a sophomore to take the place of J.K. Dobbins?

J.K. Dobbins is off to the NFL and Ohio State football coach Ryan Day is left trying to fill a position that has been secure for a long time. Dobbins was one of the best running backs to put on the Scarlet and Gray and the pressure to replace him is at an all time high.

Master Teague had a few good games early in 2019 which provided fans with hope for the future, but he faded down the stretch and needed a good off-season. His injury as the shortened spring camp was getting underway certainly didn’t settle the nerves of the fan base.

Then stepped in Trey Sermon, a graduate transfer from Oklahoma, who chose to play for the Buckeyes in 2020. Sermon had reasons for leaving Oklahoma, including an injury that shortened his 2019 season which left him on the outside looking in the Sooners’ running back room.

Seeing an opportunity to get meaningful playing time at a powerhouse school he chose to play for the Buckeyes. But does he solve Ohio State’s running back problem?

In short, nobody is going to step in immediately and be exactly what J.K Dobbins was for the Ohio State football team. That does not mean a running back can’t come in and have an incredibly successful season though.

In total, Sermon ran for over 2,000 yards in his Sooner career, adding over 350 receiving yards and 25 total touchdowns. This is highly productive from a guy that had to share the offensive firepower with guys like Baker Mayfield, Kyler Murray and Jalen Hurts.

Sermon brings experience the Buckeyes need to lead a young group of running backs. He has never been the main back, but has great speed and is a shifty runner. He is able to break a big play anytime he touches the ball and Ryan Day is sure to get him in positions to succeed.

The biggest question mark is, will be able to survive a run in the Big Ten where needing to play smash mouth football is a necessity. Fortunately, this is Master Teague’s strength so the two backs can split carries to help complement each other with their specific playing styles.

Overall, Ohio State looks to have a good running back tandem that will keep defenses on their toes, and provide a good enough run game to keep defenses guessing. And give Justin Fields the time and space he needs.