In a move that has sent a surge of excitement through Buckeye Nation, Robert Smith, former Ohio State football star and renowned Fox Sports analyst, is officially returning to the place where his football legacy began. Ohio State University announced today that Smith will join the Buckeyes football program as a special coaching advisor, marking a full circle moment for the Columbus native and long-beloved member of the Ohio State community.
The announcement was made inside a buzzing Ohio Stadium, also known as “The Horseshoe,” just weeks before fall camp began. Smith, noted for his blazing speed as a running back and insightful television commentary, provides a distinct blend of elite playing experience, intellectual ability, and leadership to Ryan Day’s coaching staff.
“Robert has always been a Buckeye at heart,” head coach Ryan Day stated. “He offers enormous football expertise, a profound grasp of what it means to wear the scarlet and gray, and a never-ending desire to help young players excel on and off the field. We’re overjoyed to welcome him home.”
Smith flourished for the Buckeyes in the early 1990s, winning the Big Ten Freshman of the Year award in 1990, before moving on to a successful NFL career with the Minnesota Vikings, where he made two Pro Bowl appearances and retired as one of the league’s top running backs. Following his playing career, Smith made a successful move into broadcasting, swiftly rising to become one of Fox Sports’ most regarded college football analysts.
His return to Ohio State is not only ceremonial; it is strategic. Smith’s responsibilities as a special coaching adviser include working directly with the running backs, mentoring student-athletes, and assisting in player development efforts targeted at closing the gap between college and professional readiness.
“I’ve always said Ohio State helped shape who I am today,” Smith stated at the press conference. “It’s an honor to return and pour into these young men in the same manner that this university poured into me. I want to help them become great athletes, but more importantly, great people and leaders in life.”
Athletic Director Gene Smith welcomed the move as consistent with the Buckeyes’ objective of comprehensive athlete development. “Robert recognizes the value of developing character, instilling discipline, and improving performance. His presence on this team would surely benefit our culture and competitiveness.”
Fans and alumni went to social media to express their excitement, with hashtags like as #RobertReturns and #BuckeyeLegend trending soon after the announcement. Current players were likewise pleased at the news, eager to benefit from the expertise and experience of someone who has previously walked in their shoes—and flourished.
As the Buckeyes prepare for a season of high expectations, Robert Smith’s return symbolizes a renewed dedication to tradition, quality, and