DaytonDailyNews.com

COLUMBUS — Trever Robinson couldn't get Ohio State out of his head.

The all-state linebacker from Richmond, Va., knew he wanted to become a Buckeye after watching the team play just once while on a recruiting trip to Penn State. He stuck with his decision, even though it meant paying his own way as a walk-on.

"I liked the swagger Ohio State played with," he said. "If I had the opportunity, I was sure I was going to go there.

"They told me, 'If you work hard and get on some special teams or get on the two-deep, maybe you'll obtain a scholarship,' " he added, "but it wasn't promised."

Robinson, who turned down a few Division II offers, made the Buckeyes' kickoff team as a redshirt freshman, and his role steadily increased. He was awarded a scholarship as a junior last year, and OSU hasn't regretted the investment.

The backup fullback is playing on four special-teams units and made the first two receptions of his career this year, including a touchdown grab. And he's not the only former walk-on chipping in.

Fourth-year junior Ryan Pretorius, who went on scholarship last season, is the team's starting placekicker, while fifth-year senior Tyler Whaley, who also was given a full ride in 2006, has seen action as a lineman and fullback.

Punter Andy Groom, an All-American in 2001 and '02, and guard Mike Kne, a starter in '04, also were former walk-ons.

"The beauty of this game is people can come in and earn their spurs," OSU coach Jim Tressel said.

"Historically, we've been able to recognize some good contribution," he added. "(Lineman) Danny Dye, (receiver) David Lisko and (long snapper) Dimitrios Makridis are three guys that will be in the same boat. They're on their way to a scholarship, and it's a great opportunity for them. It's a way to show that we've appreciated what they've brought to the team."

The Buckeyes are expected to have only 17 or 18 scholarships for the 2008 recruiting class after bringing in just 15 players this year — far below the maximum 25.

Some might argue that they'd be better off hoarding their full rides for incoming freshmen. But they currently have 35 walk-ons on the roster, and they'll probably keep uncovering a few gems each year as long as they give those players hope of getting their school paid for one day.

"When you see a coach who is offering scholarships to players who prove themselves, that really does help your walk-on program," said Duane Long, recruiting analyst for Bucknuts.com. "And it can be a gold mine. Ohio State has players who are big-time recruits, but they haven't proven they can play there yet. Some never do. When you're not spending money on somebody, and he comes in and proves he can play, that's just gravy right there."

The Buckeyes' policy of rewarding walk-ons certainly makes sense to Robinson.

"You could always hold back scholarships for talented guys," he said, "but I believe we have a lot of talent already here that the public hasn't seen. A lot of times, they don't get the recognition, but they deserve it."

Contact this reporter at (937) 225-2125 or dharris@DaytonDailyNews.com.

Today's game

Who: No. 8 Ohio State (3-0) vs. Northwestern (2-1)

When: 3:30 p.m.

Where: Ohio Stadium

TV/radio: ABC (Channels 9, 22), WING-AM 1410

Series: OSU leads 57-14-1 (Buckeyes won 54-10 last year in Evanston, Ill.)

Halftime guests: It's been 65 years since Ohio State won its first national football title. Surviving members from the 1942 team will be honored at halftime today.

Next week: OSU plays at Minnesota next Saturday.

The 8 p.m. game will be televised by ESPN.