By Steve Patterson

    Smith told us about his first spring in Columbus. “I would describe spring practices as being a huge learning experience. I've learned a great deal from a lot of the seniors who have become great leaders, and my running backs coach Doc Tressell. Going through the offense for a second time since fall helped me really understand the O as a whole.” Smith told us recently.

    Smith will be blocking for a couple of Wells at running back in the fall but was really impressed with another running back this spring, Daniel ‘Boom’ Herron. “The young players that impressed me would be Boom Herron and Taurian Washington specifically, Boom because I've seen his upside in practice all fall blocking for him on scout team and Taurian just because he had a great game against some great DB's.”

    Not playing in a real game since his senior year in high school, Smith really enjoyed the challenge and the large crowd at Ohio State for the spring game. “I really enjoyed the spring game, playing in front of all those people. The game was really the first "game" since my senior year in high school considering I redshirted and did not get to compete at all last fall. I viewed the game as not only a fan appreciation type deal, but also as a chance for a lot of the young guys who have not had a chance to play in games with a lot of people a chance to adjust and play under a little pressure.”

    Senior leadership isn’t a concern for the Buckeyes in 2008 according to Smith. “All together I think that the senior leadership is just outstanding all around. We had some great leaders in Kirk and Dionte last year, but now it seems we have more then just a couple leaders, with almost the whole senior class stepping up and taking control.” Smith said.

    During the off-season until fall camp begins, Smith has plans to continue to improve at a somewhat new position for him. “I will be focusing on my strength and technique specifically with only really playing one year of fullback in my career. Just getting comfortable and knowing what I’m doing makes things come a lot more smoothly.”