Post-OSU Update: Roman Bates was dismissed by Earle Bruce for an unspecified violation of team rules before the 1986 season. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Physical Education from Ohio State in 1987. He worked in health care in Tennessee. He died suddenly on September 5, 2013 in Memphis. (updated: Jan. 2024)

Jersey #: 28 (1983-85), 20 (1982)

Major: Recreation Education (1985), Communications (1984), Advertising Design (1983), Communications (1982)

Weight: 212 (1985), 202 (1984), 198 (1983), 194 (1982)

1986 Media Guide: Has played in 26 games over a three-year period, including six starts … has divided his time between tailback and fullback … his most productive year came in 1983, when he averaged 5.5 yards on 53 carries … combines speed and power with the ability to break away for long gains.

1985 Media Guide: May see action at both tailback and fullback this season, depending upon the availability of other backs … a breakaway runner because of his speed and deceptive running style … bench presses 365 pounds and lifts 665 … can run inside or on sweeps.

1984: Played in nine games and started six … averaged 4.3 yards per carry on 35 tries … played fullback.

1984 Media Guide: Can play fullback in needed … bench presses 350 … interested in advertising design but will major in communications.

1983: Played 56.5 minutes in 1983 and saw action in all but the Michigan game … averaged 5.5 yards per carry on 53 attempts in 1983 … scored three touchdowns by rushing and one as a pass receiver.

1983 Media Guide: Had a 54-yard scoring run in the Spring Game in Columbus.

1982: Did not see any game action.

High School: An all-Tennessee and Parade All-American tailback at Hamilton High in Memphis … ran for 1,616 yards (9.4 ypc) as a senior and 3,511 career yards … scored 39 career rushing touchdowns at Hamilton High … a scholastic All-American … captained his high school football and track teams.

Personal: Hobbies are swimming and tennis … admires Tony Dorsett … father is an executive with an insurance company.