Bo Jackson's lack of first-team reps is nothing for Ohio State fans to worry about

With Ryan Day and Ohio State just starting up fall camp and turning heads already, there seems to be some concern with just what the heck is going on with running back Bo Jackson. After a breakout season in 2025, everyone figured he'd be putting on a show this August. However, that hasn't been the case early on, with Isaiah West getting the bulk of the work with the 1s thus far.

That's it, Jackson to the bench and we'll never hear from him again! Let's hold the phone on that. While it's simply fantastic to see West make a splash at camp, no one should forget that Jackson underwent offseason surgery, which forced him to miss spring ball. Could his lack of work with the starters be a case of Day and Co. wanting to ease him back into things? Probably.

Bo Jackson working with Ohio State's 2nd team continues to surprise plenty of fans

For Ohio State's third practice, Jackson was once again with the second-team unit. West continues to be featured, while Day also brought back Legend Bey to the practice field. In case you missed it, the talented true freshman was suspended for the first two days of fall camp due to a violation of team rules.

As for Jackson, he suffered a torn labrum during his brilliant freshman season, which required shoulder surgery. It's important to note that West also had offseason surgery. While West is the one making a splash early on during fall camp, no one is going to forget what Jackson was able to get done with the ball in his hands in 2025.

Last season as a freshman, the 6-0, 215-pounder rushed for 1,090 yards and six touchdowns. In the winter, rumors were flying that he was considering leaving Columbus via the transfer portal, but that didn't happen. Instead, Jackson cleared things up, making it more than clear that he loves the Buckeyes, and he wants to help this team compete for titles.

After his breakout 1,000-yard season, the expectations are going to be high for him, no doubt. With that said, having West be ready to emerge as a big-play threat is also a good thing, as he rushed for 310 yards and two scores last season. Is the potential there for him to help Jackson help the ground game take the next step? Definitely.

Add in Bey to the mix, plus Ja'Kobi Jackson, and things sure are looking good for Day and new offensive coordinator Arthur Smith. Yes, if Jackson is still running with the 2s a week before the season-opener against Ball State, then it will be time to hit the panic button. That seems unlikely, though, so worried Ohio State fans can go ahead and breathe easy knowing that Jackson is destined to have a strong 2026 campaign. Book it.

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