The Ohio State Buckeyes could have co-starters at an important offensive position for the second year in a row.
Running backs Quinshon Judkins and TreVeyon Henderson may find themselves sharing the load with one another, similar to how the Buckeyes split reps between quarterbacks Kyle McCord and Devin Brown in last season's opener against the Indiana Hoosiers
During a press conference on Wednesday, Ohio State coach Ryan Day was asked what the relationship would look like between Judkins and Henderson. Day said it is likely both will receive plenty of meaningful touches, especially with the unprecedented potential length of the coming year.
"When I think of next season, you have your 12-game regular season, you have the Big Ten Championship game and then you have the 12-team playoff," Day said. "I mean, you're talking about possibly 16, 17 games...Your roster needs to reflect that, and having depth at running back will be very important. There will be a lot of carries to go around."
Judkins spent last year at Ole Miss, where he accumulated 15 touchdowns and almost 1,200 rushing yards. Day and his coaching staff began recruiting Judkins following the sophomore's entrance into the transfer portal, securing his commitment following the final whistle of the 2024 National Championship game.
Day said he spoke with Henderson before even entertaining the idea of bringing in Judkins. The veteran Buckeyes rusher was nothing but supportive of the idea, according to Day.
"The first thing was talking to TreVeyon, and 'What are your thoughts,'" Day said. "He was unbelievable. 'If you think it helps the team, coach, then let's do it.' And then, talking to Quinshon. 'You know, TreVeyon is here and he's coming back,' and he said 'Well, I'd love to go play with him.'"
Day told reporters he has been impressed with Henderson's evolution into a leader to this point in the offseason, saying he believes he will work well with Judkins throughout preseason camp and into the fall.
"I just think that both of their approaches are that they can get each other better, but it all started with TreVeyon," Day said. "And I think TreVeyon's leadership so far this year, as he's transitioned into a leader has been tremendous. The way that he's gone about his work, the way he's holding guys accountable. He's got a different look in his eye, and I think that's important."
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