The Ohio State football program has begun spring practice. It's the first time that the 2026 team is on the field at the same time, and this is an opportunity for a lot of Buckeyes to earn playing time. That's especially true because of the number of players out with injuries.
There are quite a few Buckeyes who are out for the spring because of injuries suffered last season or during offseason workouts. The running back room was perhaps hit the hardest with that. Both Bo Jackson and Isaiah West are out for the entirety of spring practice.
Both players underwent surgery as soon as the 2025 season ended. Jackson is the starter, but West might have a chance to get jumped as the backup if some of the other guys perform well in spring. After one practice, Ryan Day has some concerns about this group.
Ryan Day has concern with Ohio State's running back room
After practice, Day was asked if he had any room he had the most concern about. Day mentioned the running backs are a bit concerning.
"At running back right now, we're missing Isaiah and Bo. Ja'Kobi (Jackson) is someone whose played a little bit of football, but not a ton. You have Turbo (Rogers), Favour (Akih) and Legend (Bey). That's a young group right there, so they've got to really step up. First day was a little rough...I feel like right now, most positions are in decent shape. I'd say running back right now is my biggest concern, I would have to say. So we'll have to see."
Without their top two guys, now is the perfect time to build some depth. Both Jackson and West have a step up on their competition on the depth chart, so they're not in deep trouble. Having one of the younger guys step up would be nice in case injuries hit later in the season.
It was just day one, so things can certainly improve in that regard. The running backs are learning a new offensive system with Arthur Smith, so that is something to consider, as well.