By: Nick West (News-Sentinel.com) — Harding High School running back Roderick Smith surprised the Ohio State coaching staff during Wednesday’s visit to the campus in Columbus, Ohio, when he verbally committed to play for the university.

Smith, who will be a senior, chose Ohio State over Michigan State. He’s rushed for 4,770 yards and 44 touchdowns during his first three years at Harding.

Smith has met academic eligibility requirements and would begin play for the Buckeyes for the 2010 season.