Ohio State has never lacked talent at running back, but true freshmen rarely seize the job and never look back. Bo Jackson did exactly that in 2025.
Entering the season in a split backfield with CJ Donaldson, Jackson steadily asserted himself with every carry, eventually emerging as the Buckeyes’ clear RB1. He currently has 168 rushing attempts for 1,035 yards and five touchdowns, numbers that reflect both durability and trust from the coaching staff.
His rise was not driven by a single breakout performance,
but by week-to-week consistency and by hitting holes decisively, finishing runs through contact, and giving Ohio State an offense that stayed on schedule.
Carrying on Ohio State’s running back lineage
Ohio State’s identity at running back has always centered on backs who combine toughness with efficiency.
From Archie Griffin’s relentless consistency to Eddie George’s power and modern stars like J.K. Dobbins, the Buckeyes have thrived with runners who could handle volume without losing explosiveness. Jackson fits cleanly into that lineage.
His running style emphasizes patience and balance, allowing blocks to develop before accelerating downhill. He may not yet own the signature moments that define careers, but the traits are unmistakable. Jackson’s presence stabilized the offense and complemented Ohio State’s passing attack, reinforcing a formula that has powered championship teams across eras.
A legacy built on impact, not records
Jackson is unlikely to chase Ohio State’s all-time rushing records, not because of ability, but because of trajectory. In today’s college football landscape, elite running backs often depart for the NFL after three seasons, and Jackson appears firmly on that path.
Still, Ohio State legacies are not written strictly in record books. They are defined by production in big games, consistency over multiple seasons, and contributions to championship runs. Over the next two to three years, Jackson has the opportunity to anchor Ohio State’s offense and solidify his place among the program’s great backs.
If his freshman season is any indication, Bo Jackson is not just next in line, he is already part of the Ohio State standard.
