Ohio State senior Jordan Hall was named a preseason candidate for the Doak Walker Award, given annually to the nation's top running back.
Hall, a four-star recruit coming out of high school, had 405 yards and two touchdowns on 99 carries last season. His workload could increase with the departure of Dan Herron, who now plays with the Cincinnati Bengals.
Hall is currently sidelined after having foot surgery in June. The initial timetable for his return was 10 weeks, which means he'll likely miss at least one game in September. Ohio State's first two contests are against Miami (Ohio) and Central Florida, so the team should be able to make due.
OSU spokesman Jerry Emig reported that Hall hurt his foot while walking in a patch of grass.
Trent Richardson of Alabama won the award last year.
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