Spring Intro: Running Backs – The (Last) Year of Beanie
March 29 2008 10:04 AM -- Filed in: Football
Despite finishing 11th in the nation in rushing, averaging 124 yards/game, it seemed like many overlooked Wells’ season while it was happening. Yet, Wells was the first Ohio State tailback to have two games with more than 200 yards since Eddie George had four such games in 1995, and Wells’ 15 TDs were the most since George had 24 his senior year.
This season: Expect to see Wells get less carries this season, if only slightly. Beanie got stronger as the season wore on, averaging 161 yards/game over his the six games, but he was also dinged up down the stretch. So, look for the coaches to give him more rest in the face of any nagging injuries. Maurice Wells is back (for what seems like his 8th season) along with Saine as the only other backs with experience. Boom Herron used the redshirt last season, so it is time for him to see some action.
The starter: No mystery here. Wells is a legitimate Heisman candidate and the engine that makes the offense work. He is guaranteed to get 20-plus carries per game. While the coaches would like to avoid the ankle and hand/wrist injuries that plagued Beanie in ’07, do not look for Beanie, or the coaching staff, to steer clear of contact. Beanie seems most content dishing out the punishment.
Then again, maybe we should get as much out of him as possible, since at least one interested observer thinks this will be his last season in Scarlet and Gray. His mother, Paulette Wells, seems to think there is a chance this is his final season.
"This year I want to watch him run more," she said, "because this is his last year. Maybe."
The reserves: In my mind, Brandon Saine is the #2 running back. He has good size and great speed, and his ability to catch the ball out of the backfield sets him apart. His carries dropped off late in the season, but he was clearly part of the game plan against LSU. The Buckeyes lack of a true third wide receiver may allow Saine to get on the field along with Wells as dual threat.
Finally, Maurice Wells leads the team in hair length. That’s about it. He has been a solid contributor for three years but has never broken through and it does not appear this season will be any different. Tressel said he expects Herron to see some playing time this spring and fall so that will probably eat into Maurice’s carries as well. Herron is smaller than Saine but likes to run between tackles and does not shy away from contact. Without the addition of an incoming freshman running back, these two will be battling each other for carries.
There is no fullback to speak of after the loss of Dionte Johnson, who led the way most of the time last year. This is no great loss in my opinion, as Wells does need a fullback with that offensive line. I also think playing a fullback prevents Ohio State from having its most talented players on the field. Sure, there are short yardage situations that call for a fullback. When they do arise Aram Olsen and Co. will have to step up.
