COLUMBUS, Ohio — Running back Dan Herron, who was suspended for half of the season for breaking NCAA rules, was voted Ohio State’s MVP by his teammates.

Herron, a senior, sat out the first five games for his role in the program’s tattoo scandal that forced the resignation of coach Jim Tressel. He was suspended an additional game for accepting too much money for his summer job.

Other top award winners announced Sunday included freshman quarterback Braxton Miller (outstanding offensive player), junior defensive lineman John Simon (outstanding defensive player) and senior defensive back and special-teams player Nate Ebner (most inspirational).

Ohio State announced weekly game captains but honored center Michael Brewster, Herron, linebacker Andrew Sweat and Simon as season captains.

The Buckeyes (6-6) will face Florida in the Gator Bowl.

First Published December 19, 2011, 1:19 a.m.