[wadc45]

Rivals $

3/16

From the OSU site...confirms he has received a written offer from OSU...has visits planned to OSU for a 7-on-7, spring practice and the spring game.

http://bucknuts.com/blog/post-detail.php?p=6157

Ft. Wayne (Ind.) Harding running back Rod Smith says he has received a written scholarship offer from the Buckeyes.

"They saw a couple of my highlight films and they sent my coach a scholarship offer," Smith said. "I was super excited. Ohio State is one of the colleges I've wanted to go to."

The 6-foot-3 and 220-pound Smith rushed for 1,200 yards and 14 touchdowns during his junior season.

Smith is an outstanding athlete who combines size with speed and power. He has run the 40-yard dash in 4.5 seconds and averages 15 points and 11 rebounds per game on the Harding basketball team.

Smith has been to Ohio State on more than one occasion including attending the Ohio State-Minnesota game last season.

Smith spoke to both Jim Tressel and Doc Tressel on Sunday.

"They want me to stay in touch," Smith said. "Coach (Jim) Tressel said to stay focused and keep my head in the books."

Smith said he will likely select a college shortly before the football season begins or not long after.

"My top three are Ohio State, Georgia and Iowa," he said. "Iowa has offered, but Georgia hasn't."