Ohio State University will begin its spring practice without two key players from its running back roster. Sophomores Bo Jackson and Isaiah West are both recovering from offseason shoulder surgeries and will miss all 15 scheduled practices. Head coach Ryan Day confirmed their absence during a recent radio interview, emphasizing the impact this will have on the team’s preparations.
This development comes as both Jackson and West were anticipated to be the starting running backs for the Buckeyes in the 2026 season. In his freshman year, Jackson led the team with 179 carries for 1,090 yards and 14 touchdowns, while also contributing 22 receptions for 161 yards and two additional scores. West made an impact as well, accumulating 310 yards and two touchdowns from 59 carries.
The absence of Jackson and West opens up opportunities for other players to step into more prominent roles. Among those expected to compete for playing time are transfer Ja’Kobi Jackson, sophomore Turbo Rogers, and incoming freshmen Favour Akih and Legend Bey. Day expressed enthusiasm about Bey, noting the significance of his recruitment from Tennessee.
“He’s dynamite,” Day remarked about Bey. “I’ve called him a poor man’s Tyreek Hill. He’s lightning in a bottle, and he can do a lot of things for us.” This statement highlights the potential impact Bey could have, especially given the current depth issues at the running back position.
The Buckeyes will need to navigate these challenges as they prepare for the upcoming season. As spring practice unfolds, the coaching staff will focus on developing depth and identifying key contributors for the 2026 lineup. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how the team adapts in light of these injuries and which players emerge as viable alternatives in the running back room.
