Ohio State’s Decision: Carlos Locklyn to Manage Running Back Depth
Ohio State head coach Ryan Day made a significant decision when he hired Carlos Locklyn as the new running backs coach. Locklyn, who previously served as the running backs coach at Western Kentucky and Oregon, expressed his excitement about joining the prestigious Ohio State program. The opportunity to work with one of the best running back groups in college football and focus on winning a national championship in 2024 was too good to pass up.
Day revealed that the hiring process was extensive, with him considering over 12 candidates for the position. However, Locklyn stood out due to his impressive coaching skills and his ability to build relationships with players. Despite being a position coach for only three years, Locklyn has already worked with several NFL running backs and has garnered praise for his football IQ.
One of the challenges Locklyn will face in his new role is managing the talented depth chart of Ohio State’s running backs. The team boasts players like TreVeyon Henderson and Quinshon Judkins, who have both had successful seasons with double-digit touchdowns. Locklyn is familiar with handling a room full of talented running backs, as he has previously coached future NFL players at Memphis and Oregon.
Locklyn believes that building a sense of unity among the running backs will be crucial, emphasizing the importance of celebrating each other’s successes. By finding the right balance between Henderson and Judkins, Locklyn hopes to maximize the team’s offensive potential and provide fresh legs late in the season.
Reports have surfaced about running back Dallan Hayden’s intention to transfer, although Day did not confirm or deny these rumors. Locklyn’s omission of Hayden when discussing the team’s talent suggests that Ohio State does not plan on adding another running back to their roster. The team is confident in their current group of five running backs, which includes promising freshman James Peoples.
If necessary, Locklyn has proven to be an effective recruiter, having successfully landed recruits during his time at Oregon. However, the coaching staff is currently satisfied with the depth they have and believes that the current roster is well-positioned for success.
In summary, Carlos Locklyn’s appointment as Ohio State’s running backs coach brings excitement and anticipation for the team’s future. With his impressive coaching skills, ability to connect with players, and experience working with talented running backs, Locklyn is well-prepared to manage Ohio State’s running back depth. As the team sets its sights on a national championship, Locklyn’s contributions and expertise will undoubtedly play a significant role in their pursuit of success.