Quinshon Judkins Speaks on Exit of Former Ohio State Buckeyes Coach Tony Alford

Quinshon Judkins, the newest Ohio State Buckeyes running back, said he understands Tony Alford had to do what was best for his family.

Mar 7, 2024; Columbus, OH, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes running backs coach Tony Alford works with / Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch / USA

Just under three months after Quinshon Judkins transferred to the Ohio State Buckeyes, running backs coach Tony Alford announced he would be leaving the team. Judkins said he was surprised at the news, but the departure did not change what brought him to the Buckeyes.

"Just with the situation of college football where it is today, I understand coach Alford had to do what was best for him," Judkins said. "But I’m here at Ohio State not only just for everything around it but I’m here for the university itself. So I’m just focusing on the bigger picture and the brotherhood that’s here, that’s what’s important to me.”

Ohio State head coach Ryan Day took over Alford's duties while he and his coaching staff searched for a permanent replacement. Judkins said it was nice to work with Day, even if it was just in the interim.

"It meant a lot to have Coach Day in those meetings and teaching us everything that he's put in and implementing into our running game," Judkins said. "It was really good to have him there."

On Tuesday, Ohio State announced it was filling Alford's old position with Oregon Ducks running backs coach Carlos Locklyn.

Judkins accumulated over 2,700 yards and scored 31 touchdowns over two seasons with the Ole Miss Rebels before coming to Ohio State. The Pike Road, Alabama native will share touches with senior Buckeyes running back TreVeyon Henderson at a to-be-determined split.