Ohio State received a minor scare in practice on Friday when projected starting running back Ezekiel Elliott was injured. He hurt his left wrist, but played through the pain. It was revealed on Saturday morning that Elliott underwent surgery to have a pin inserted into his left wrist for a fracture.
Even better news for the Buckeyes is that Elliott is expected to be full strength by the start of the season on August 30. Elliott is expected to return to proactive by Thursday, but contact will probably limited due to the surgery.
Elliott ran for 262 yards and 2 touchdowns in 2013 with limited playing time behind Carlos Hyde. Hyde was the 57th overall pick in the second round of the NFL Draft by the San Francisco 49ers.
A few players will get reps in Elliott's absence during practice. Curtis Samuel, Rod Smith, and Bri'onte Dunn are expected to battle for the right to get first team reps until Elliott returns to practice.
Ohio State opens the season August 30 with what amounts to a road game at Navy. The game will be held in Baltimore, Maryland at M&T Bank Stadium.