[Redhawk]

Rivals.com Football Recruiting - National Notebook: Indiana talent on the rise
(free)

Fort Wayne Harding running back Roderick Smith (6 feet 3/215 pounds) grabbed headlines last week when he picked up a scholarship offer from Ohio State. Along with the Buckeyes, Smith also has an offer from Iowa and is getting attention from schools such as Oklahoma, Purdue, Texas, Arkansas, Michigan State and Notre Dame.

"Ohio State said he's the best running back in the nation," Harding coach Sherwood Haydock said. "Rod is a big back, but runs like he is 5-10. He is very elusive, can spin in traffic and has quick feet. I think once people see his film, they'll believe he's a top-100 prospect and one of the best athletes in the nation."

You can't argue with Smith's production. He has rushed for about 4,800 yards in his high school career and averages more than 7.0 yards a carry. Haydock said Smith has been legitimately timed at 4.5 seconds in the 40-yard dash.

"He has great speed and power," Haydock said. "He is a great athlete. He reads his blocking very well and can catch the ball very well. I have had three Big Ten receivers and he is just as good as them if he were a receiver."

Along with his football accolades, Smith was a first-team all-conference selection in basketball. His coach said he's famous at his school for his "massive dunks." He also has a long jump of around 23 feet and a bench press of 300 pounds.

"I think once the secret gets out on Rod, then people will understand what I'm talking about," Haydock said. "We've got some special talent in Indiana this year, and Rod is definitely one of the best of the best. We think he's at the top of the charts."