By: Doug Lesmerises (Cleveland Plain Dealer) –

Breaking down the best 20 Ohio State players on the roster right now as the Buckeyes prepare to report for preseason camp on Sunday.

No. 9: Sophomore running back Dan Herron

I’ve been getting the feeling that some Ohio State fans are almost glad to see Beanie Wells in the NFL, especially after Wells injured his ankle in practice. That brought up Wells’ injury history at Ohio State and the idea held by some, even if it’s a vocal minority, that he never reached his full potential at Ohio State.

Maybe he didn’t. It would have been since to see him for a full healthy season. I’m sure he wishes that, too. But I think it’s a mistake to underestimate what Wells did in this offense, how often he added yards on his own to the end of a career by running around, jumping over or stiffarming a defender.

Herron isn’t Wells and won’t be Wells. He won’t run through tacklers the same way, though the muscles definition in his arms is impressive.

Now, after all that, there’s a lot to like about Herron.

“We feel real good about Boom Herron. Danny Herron is a tough kid, a good ball carrier, excellent pass protector, is solid in the passing game,” OSU coach Jim Tressel said.

All true. He averaged 4.9 yards per carry and scored six touchdowns, despite missing three games with a concussion. He runs hard, I think he’s a back that fits well with the offense should look like with Terrelle Pryor and he didn’t fumble in 89 carries last season.

He should lead the Buckeyes in carries, though Brandon Saine and maybe Jaamal Berry will get their share, and I think he’s a guy you can hammer teams with if you want to sit on a lead late. But don’t expect him to take care of as many defenders on his own as Wells did.
Is he too high at No. 9? Maybe. But if you’re a starting running back at Ohio State, you’ll get a chance to shine, and Herron seems ready to step into this role.

No related posts.