# Ohio State running back competition and rotation

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/ohio-state-running-back-competition-and-rotation
> Updated: 2026-08-15T19:41:07.000Z. Sources: 8. Developments: 2.

During the 2026 fall camp, Ohio State head coach Ryan Day and offensive coordinator Arthur Smith managed a highly competitive running back room. Initially, the competition focused on freshman Bo Jackson, who had rushed for over 1,000 yards the previous season, and sophomore Isaiah West, who was returning from shoulder surgery.

Following the preseason competition, the coaching staff announced a shift toward a three-man rotation for the upcoming season. This system will feature Bo Jackson, Isaiah West, and veteran transfer Ja’Kobi Jackson. The strategy, influenced by Arthur Smith’s NFL experience, aims to utilize the specific skill sets of each player—such as Jackson’s ability to run between the tackles and West’s explosiveness—to maintain unpredictability in the offense.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-15: Ohio State to utilize three-man running back rotation

Ohio State head coach Ryan Day plans to use a three-man running back rotation, led by Bo Jackson, potentially reflecting offensive coordinator Arthur Smith’s NFL-style scheme.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ohio-state-to-utilize-three-man-running-back-rotation

### 2026-08-07: Ohio State running backs Bo Jackson and Isaiah West compete for lead role

Ohio State’s Bo Jackson and Isaiah West, both recovered from shoulder injuries, are battling for the top running‑back spot as coach Ryan Day praises West’s offseason work.

6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ohio-state-running-backs-bo-jackson-and-isaiah-west-compete-for-lead-role

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Cite as: Ohio State running back competition and rotation. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/ohio-state-running-back-competition-and-rotation