The Buckeyes have had a long and storied tradition of producing successful running backs whose skills translated well to the professional level. Although none were selected in this past weekend's draft, eleven backs (including two fullbacks) have heard their names followed by "Ohio State" called from the commissioner's podium over the past twenty years.
Some of these players, such as Eddie George, Maurice Clarett, Beanie Wells, or most recently, Carlos Hyde, were selected for a bruising running style desired by many NFL teams. Guys like Michael Wiley and Boom Herron were chosen thanks to their all-around abilities as football players, expected to contribute to the team in any number of ways even if they never became 1,000 yard rushers.