Spare the Rod

Late breaking news out of Columbus this evening. OSU has dismissed senior RB Rod Smith for a violation of team rules. No further comment was given on the nature of the violation.

Rod Smith had a checkered career at OSU, having shown poor academic performance and a general lack of living up to his potential over three seasons. At one point this summer, Urban Meyer was quoted as saying he didn't expect to have Smith back at all, based on his previous academic issues. Instead, Rod went on to make early waves with what appeared to be solid turnaround, garnering praise from the head coach for his attitude and work ethic. Now, his time as a Buckeye is done. His chances at a football career, however slim they may have been, seem all but gone now.

Smith had amassed 102 yards and 4 TDs on 24 carries this season, functioning primarily as a short yardage power runner.

UPDATE 10/28/14

Ohio State head coach Urban Meyer confirmed today that senior running back Rod Smith has been dismissed. "Rod Smith has left the Ohio State football team in order to deal with some personal issues," Meyer said through a released statement Tuesday afternoon. "We will continue to support Rod and we wish him the best."