Ohio RB close to offers

Reynoldsburg, Ohio, all-purpose back Rodney Smith was one of the better players at the recent Columbus NIKE Training Camp. The 5-foot-5, 175-pounder was small in stature, but was big in performance at the event. And now schools are starting to get closer and closer to coming after him with an offer.

"I'm talking to OU (Ohio)," Smith said. "It's looking real strong for them to offer me right now. I'm going down there June 1, and they should offer me. I think right now Ohio University is leading."

There are other schools showing interest, too.

"Cincinnati, Louisville, Youngstown State and Kent State are recruiting me, too," Smith said. "Kent State and Youngstown State both said they're real close to offering. I would like to decide after my senior season. I think that after I have all my visits I would like to go to a place that is like home – the people at the school, the surrounding areas all of that and after that it would be academics."

Smith said several coaches have made a big impression on him.

"Tim Hinton at Cincinnati stands out because he's the running back coach, and that's what I want to play," Smith said. "I also really like Frank Solich, the head coach for Ohio, I like him a lot."

Smith said his family would like to have him near home in college.

"My mom wants me to stay close, and my dad he wants me to go anywhere they will offer me a full ride," Smith said. "I think I'm leaning towards my dad's side.

"The best part of recruiting is when you get to see the coaches when they come to see you and the junior days. The worst is waiting and seeing what coaches like you and don't like you and waiting for that one phone call."