Dispatch reporters and editors answer readers’ questions about Ohio State athletics at BuckeyeXtra.com:

Q: Why did Ohio State play its home game against Miami University this season at Nationwide Arena? — Mary Ann Bohellaw, Newark

A: As a condition of being the host school for the 2012 NCAA Tournament’s second- and third-round games at Nationwide Arena, Ohio State was required to play one game at the arena this season. The Buckeyes did the same before the 2004 NCAA Tournament games at Nationwide, playing host to Virginia Tech. — Bob Baptist

Q: I keep hearing about recruits making “official” and “unofficial” visits. What is the difference? — Rob Ehlen, Hilton Head Island, S.C.

A: The biggest difference is that expenses on an official trip are paid by the school, including transportation to and from campus. A prospective student-athlete is allowed to visit five schools on official visits. A prospective student-athlete can make unlimited unofficial visits to a school, but the only item a school can pay for on such visits are three tickets to a home athletic contest. — Bill Rabinowitz

Q: What is going on with running back Rod Smith? — Jose Lopez, West Milton

A: Smith, a redshirt freshman running back, missed the chartered flight to the Gator Bowl for some inexplicable reason, but insiders said he remains on scholarship and reportedly has been working out with the team. The coaches tried him a little at linebacker as injuries decimated that unit, but it appears running back will be his home for now. — Tim May