Competition isn't over, but Ohio State RBs coach Tony Alford says Master Teague is leading the way

There are still more than five months left until Ohio State kicks the ball off the tee to open the 2021 season against Minnesota. There is no set depth chart at this point.

But if Ohio State was to play a game this week, the guy at running back would be Master Teague III. That’s how running backs coach Tony Alford sees the situation right now, as the Buckeyes have started spring practice.

Teague was the No. 2 back last season behind transfer Trey Sermon and still produced at a high level. He totaled 514 yards on 2 touchdowns on the ground and also caught 5 passes for 46 yards.

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“Right now if we played a game tomorrow, he would be,” Alford said, per Lettermen Row. “He’s the incumbent starter. He’s played the most and had the most reps of anybody in the room. But there’s other really good players here, too. I’m really anxious to watch Miyan Williams. Here’s a guy that had a smattering of carries, a very small sample size, but what he did have, he was very successful in those opportunities. He’s continuing to grow into the program and this offense. Marcus Crowley’s coming back. Steele’s had his moments, and now you have two young guys.

“Guys are going to get their opportunities and they’re going to get the reps this spring. In all positions here, you get what you earn. If those opportunities are deserved and earned, they’ll be there for [Teague].”

Over the past two seasons, Teague has been a valuable backup for the Buckeyes. In 2019, he rushed for 789 yards and 4 touchdowns behind 2,000-yard rusher J.K. Dobbins. He’s thrived in that role.

Now, he looks to be the leader out of the backfield for the Buckeyes in 2021.