Carlos Locklyn Expects Elite Running Back Play This Year
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In this episode of The Buckeye Weekly Podcast, hosts Tony Gerdeman and Tom discuss their recent interview with Ohio State's running backs coach, Carlos Locklyn, inside the Woody Hayes Athletic Center. They highlight Locklyn’s no-nonsense, high-intensity coaching style—symbolized by his 'no soft-batch cookies' sign, which he uses metaphorically to emphasize that only elite, tough players are welcome. The conversation centers on the team’s deep and talented running back room, with particular focus on Bo Jackson, Isaiah West, and newly arrived Jacoby Jackson. Despite missing significant time due to injuries and limited high school senior seasons (including for Bo and Isaiah, who played only a few games as seniors), Locklyn expects all three to be elite contributors this season, citing their potential for explosive growth. The hosts also explore the impact of offensive coordinator Arthur Smith’s structured, build-on-everything philosophy and the importance of blocking and team cohesion, especially in run-after-catch scenarios. A recurring theme is the competitive culture Locklyn fosters—where every player must outwork the next to earn carries. The episode ends with a call to watch the full interview on Buckeyes Tomorrow Morning and YouTube’s Buckeye Huddle.
Carlos Locklyn expects Bo Jackson and Isaiah West to be elite this season despite limited high school senior experience and injury setbacks.
The running back room is highly competitive, with five capable players who must consistently outperform each other to earn carries.
Arthur Smith’s structured offensive system emphasizes building plays off previous ones, creating a disciplined and repeatable approach.
Blocking is a critical, ongoing focus—especially for run-after-catch plays—where even non-ball carriers must make impactful efforts.
Jacoby Jackson brings leadership and versatility, fitting Ohio State’s need for an elusive, pass-catching back.
…and 2 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Welcome & The 'No Soft-Batch Cookies' Philosophy
“No soft-batch cookies allowed. Only E.L. fudge. Maybe some toll house.”
Bo Jackson & Isaiah West: The Rising Stars
“He expects them to be all around better, more explosive, breaking more tackles.”
Jacoby Jackson: The New Leader
Jacoby Jackson’s arrival is highlighted as a key addition. He brings leadership experience from Florida and fits the mold of an elusive, versatile back who can catch and run.
The Grit & Grime Mentality
“He sees that grit and grime, has a physical mindset. He says they were missing that last year in the run game.”
The Competitive Culture & Future Outlook
The episode closes with a look at the high level of competition in the running back room, the importance of blocking, and the expectation that every player must outwork the next to earn a spot.
“It's like when you throw them in the ball, it's like they're catching a refrigerator.”
“If you want to hit home runs on the ground, who do we need? We need the receivers blocking.”
“No soft-batch cookies allowed. Only E.L. fudge. Maybe some toll house.”
Hosts
Guest
Carlos Locklyn
person
Bo Jackson
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Isaiah West
person
Jacoby Jackson
person
Arthur Smith
person
Ryan Day
person
Woody Hayes Athletic Center
place
Turbo Rogers
person
Buckeye Weekly Podcast
media
Memphis
place
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