The tradition of Ohio State running backs is strong and varied over the years. Archie Griffin is firmly established on the “Mount Rushmore” of Ohio State greats, as the only two-time winner of the Heisman Trophy. In the 1980s, players such as Tim Spencer and Keith Byars made their respective marks on the program in a positive fashion for Earle Bruce’s teams.
While John Cooper’s tenure is often derided for a lack of wins versus Michigan, the Buckeyes had players such as Robert Smith and Eddie George carrying the ball, and creating tremendous Ohio State football memories.