Troy Smith has played on the scout team, returned kicks and been a back-up running back for Ohio State, despite being one of the most highly-touted quarterbacks coming out of high school.

At the end of the 2004 season, Smith was suspended from OSU’s game against Oklahoma State and its opener against Miami-Ohio in 2005 after accepting money from a booster.

But Smith has fought through it all while having to split time with fifth-year senior quarterback Justin Zwick along the way.

Now it’s the Heisman candidate’s chance to take the helm full time after running for 611 yards and 11 touchdowns last season while throwing for 2,282 yards and 16 scores.

“We told everyone that they need to stay in their rushing lanes,” said NIU defensive coordinator Denny Doornbos. “He’s the type of guy where we have got to have good coverage.”

Contrary to popular opinion, Doornbos said that after analyzing film, he believes Smith is more of a thrower who runs.

Senior defensive end Ken West sided with Doornbos, and said he thinks Smith is a scrambler that looks to pass first.

“If he gets a look we’ve got to get him before he breaks a big run,” West said.

Regardless, Smith will continue to fight comparisons to former Texas quarterback and national champion Vince Young, especially since they wear the same number.

Add on the fact that Ohio State is the No. 1 ranked team in the nation, and Smith has nothing but expectations to fulfill all season long.

Sean Connor is an NIU football beat reporter for the Northern Star.