Could Dallan Hayden Earn Expanded Role vs. Penn State?

Originally posted on FanNation Buckeyes Now
By Cole Thompson | Last updated 10/16/23

One great game isn't enough for Ohio State to change its backfield pecking order, especially heading into a matchup against No. 7 Penn State.

But if the No. 3 Buckeyes wanted to expand the role of Dallan Hayden moving into mid-October, it'd be justified following his success in Saturday's 41-7 win over Purdue.

Hayden, who was expected to be redshirted after moving down the pecking order before the season began, gave an anemic run game life on the road at Ross-Ade Stadium, totaling 76 yards and one touchdown. He picked up four first downs and broke free for two runs over 15 yards.

Ohio State (6-0, 3-0 Big Ten) continues to be one-dimensional offensively this season, largely due to the lack of a rushing attack. TreVeyon Henderson, Chip Trayanum, and Myian Williams have over 97 percent of the carries, but no have dominated when given the chance.

Henderson is averaging a team-high 6.1 yards but also has only 44 carries. Trayanum is averaging 4.6 yards, but his 51 reps have led to just 235 yards. And Williams, the current No. 3 runner, has collected under 100 yards (96) on 25 carries.

The Buckeyes will have their hands full with Penn State (6-0, 3-0 Big Ten) regardless of which running back takes a majority of reps. The Nittany Lions have been one of the nation's better defenses under second-year coordinator Manny Diaz.

Entering Saturday, Penn State ranks third nationally in run defense, allowing opponents to average 72.5 yards per game. Defensive end and future first-round pick Chop Robinson has been a stalwart in the trenches, recording five tackles for loss and three sacks.

Winning through the air will come with its share of struggles, too. Penn State leads all FBS programs in pass defense (121.2 yards per game) and yards per pass attempt (4.6). The Nittany Lions have only allowed one touchdown through the air, coming back in Week 3's win over Illinois.

Kickoff from Ohio Stadium is scheduled for noon.

This article first appeared on FanNation Buckeyes Now and was syndicated with permission.

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