The name Bo Jackson resonates through the halls of sports history with a weight few other names can carry. For decades, it has been synonymous with unparalleled multi-sport dominance, elite athleticism, and the "Bo Knows" cultural phenomenon. However, in recent months, the name has resurfaced in the headlines of college football, specifically linked to the Ohio State Buckeyes. This has led many fans to ask: Is the legend back? Is there a relation? The reality involves the emergence of a new star in Columbus who is carving out his own path while carrying one of the most famous names in athletic history.

Lamar "Bo" Jackson is a dynamic freshman running back currently playing for the Ohio State Buckeyes. While he shares a name with the 1985 Heisman Trophy winner, he is a distinct individual with a unique story, representing a new generation of talent for one of the most prestigious football programs in the United States. Understanding the distinction between the two athletes is the first step in appreciating what this young player brings to the Scarlet and Gray.

Clarifying the Identity of Ohio State Running Back Bo Jackson

To clear up any confusion immediately: the Bo Jackson currently playing for Ohio State is not Vincent Edward "Bo" Jackson, the legendary athlete who starred in both the NFL and MLB during the late 1980s. The two are not father and son, nor are they directly related. The shared name is a coincidence that has undoubtedly added a layer of intrigue to the young player's recruitment and early collegiate career.

The Legacy of Vincent "Bo" Jackson

The original Bo Jackson remains a global icon. He attended Auburn University from 1982 to 1985, where he became a legendary running back, winning the Heisman Trophy in his senior year. He is famously remembered for his stint with the Los Angeles Raiders in the NFL and the Kansas City Royals in MLB, becoming the only athlete in history to be named an All-Star in both sports. Crucially, the elder Jackson never played for Ohio State, nor did he have any formal affiliation with the Buckeyes during his amateur or professional years.

Who is Lamar "Bo" Jackson?

The player currently making waves in Columbus is Lamar "Bo" Jackson, a native of Cleveland, Ohio. A member of the 2025 recruiting class, Lamar was a highly sought-after prospect who chose to stay in his home state to play for Ohio State. Standing at 6-foot-0 and weighing approximately 215 pounds, he possesses a physical profile that matches the demands of modern Big Ten football. While he acknowledges the legacy of the name he carries, his focus remains entirely on building his own legacy within the Ohio State offensive system.

The Rise of a Cleveland Local Legend

Lamar Jackson’s journey to Ohio Stadium began in Cleveland, where he established himself as one of the premier high school athletes in the state of Ohio. His development in the local football scene provided him with a gritty, physical edge that has become a hallmark of his playing style.

High School Dominance at Villa Angela-St. Joseph

Jackson attended Villa Angela-St. Joseph (VASJ) High School, a program known for producing elite talent. During his time at VASJ, he was a versatile force, starting for four years at both running back and safety. This iron-man style of play showcased not only his endurance but also his high football IQ and willingness to engage physically on every snap.

In his high school career, Jackson was a highlight reel waiting to happen. Before a season-ending injury in the fourth week of his senior year, he had already rushed for 560 yards and 10 touchdowns on just 37 carries. This incredible average of over 15 yards per carry highlighted his "home-run" ability—the capacity to turn any routine handoff into a scoring play. His performance at the high school level earned him a four-star rating from major recruiting services, including On3 and 247Sports.

A Competitive Recruiting Battle

As one of the top-ranked running backs in the country (ranked as high as No. 5 in Ohio and a top-10 running back nationally), Jackson’s recruitment was a high-stakes affair. He received offers from nearly every major powerhouse, including Alabama, Georgia, and Michigan. The battle for his commitment was intense, especially given the coaching changes at Ohio State.

Originally recruited by former running backs coach Tony Alford, Jackson’s relationship with the Buckeyes remained strong even after Alford’s departure to a rival school. The arrival of Carlos Locklyn as the new running backs coach in Columbus proved pivotal. Locklyn had previously established a connection with Jackson during his tenure at Oregon, and he made the Cleveland native his top priority upon arriving at Ohio State. In June 2024, Jackson officially committed to the Buckeyes, citing a deep relationship with Head Coach Ryan Day and the feeling that Ohio State was truly "home."

Explosive Freshman Campaign in the 2025 Season

Lamar "Bo" Jackson did not take long to make an impact once he arrived on campus as an early enrollee in January 2025. By the time the 2025 season kicked off, he had worked his way into a significant role within a crowded and talented backfield.

Historic Back-to-Back 100-Yard Games

Jackson’s entry into collegiate football was nothing short of historic. In his first two games where he received significant touches—against Grambling State and Ohio University—he surpassed the 100-yard rushing mark in both contests. This feat made him the first freshman running back in Ohio State history to record back-to-back 100-yard games to start his career.

His performance against Ohio was particularly notable for a 64-yard touchdown run that demonstrated his elite vision and second-level speed. Despite being a true freshman, he showed a veteran's patience, allowing his blocks to develop before exploding through the hole. These early performances quickly elevated him from a promising backup to a focal point of the Buckeyes' offensive strategy.

Stepping Up in the Big Ten Conference

As the schedule moved into the heart of the Big Ten season, Jackson continued to prove that his early success was no fluke. In a critical matchup against Washington, he took on a "lion's share" of the carries, rushing 17 times for 80 yards. This game was a turning point, as the coaching staff officially began to lean more heavily on the freshman in high-leverage situations.

By mid-November 2025, Jackson had accumulated over 600 rushing yards on 95 carries through eight games, leading the team in total rushing attempts. His ability to maintain a high yards-per-carry average (peaking at 7.5 early in the season) against stout defensive units like Minnesota and Washington solidified his status as one of the most dangerous offensive weapons in the conference.

Analyzing Bo Jackson's Playing Style and Impact

What makes the "new" Bo Jackson so effective is a combination of physical attributes and technical skills that fit perfectly into Ryan Day’s offensive scheme. He is not just a north-south power runner; he is a multi-dimensional threat.

Physicality and Vision on the Field

Standing 6 feet tall and weighing over 210 pounds, Jackson runs with a lower center of gravity that makes him difficult to bring down on the first contact. Ohio State coaches have frequently compared his running style to former Buckeye star Quinshon Judkins, particularly in short-yardage situations where he "brings his own blocker" by initiating contact and finishing runs forward.

Beyond his power, Jackson’s vision is his most underrated trait. He possesses the ability to identify cut-back lanes and manipulate linebackers with his footwork. This vision allows him to maximize the effectiveness of Ohio State’s zone-blocking schemes, often turning a play designed for three yards into a gain of eight or more.

Role in the Buckeyes' Three-Headed Monster

The 2025 Ohio State backfield is structured as a committee, often referred to as a "three-headed monster." This group includes:

  • Bo Jackson (Freshman): The primary explosive runner and volume leader.
  • CJ Donaldson (Senior): The veteran power back and goal-line specialist.
  • James Peoples (Sophomore): A versatile threat who excels in pass protection and receiving.

Jackson has carved out his role by being the most explosive of the trio. However, his development in the passing game has been equally impressive. Coach Ryan Day has noted that Jackson’s background as a potential wide receiver in his youth has made him an elite route runner out of the backfield. During the Washington game, Jackson was even utilized as a slot receiver, adding a layer of unpredictability to the Buckeyes' formations.

The Strategic Future of Ohio State’s Backfield

Looking ahead, the presence of Bo Jackson provides Ohio State with a foundational piece for their offense over the next several seasons. Alongside fellow freshman Isaiah West, Jackson represents a youth movement that ensures the Buckeyes will remain a dominant rushing force in the expanded Big Ten.

The chemistry between Jackson and West has been a focal point of the 2025 season. Despite competing for carries, the two have developed a "thunder and lightning" dynamic, where Jackson’s physicality complements West’s explosive quickness. This camaraderie is vital for a program that aims for National Championship runs, as it allows for a rotation that keeps players fresh late into the fourth quarter and deep into the postseason.

Conclusion

The story of Bo Jackson at Ohio State is a testament to the enduring power of a name, but more importantly, it is the story of a young athlete's rapid ascent to stardom. While he will always be compared to the Auburn legend, Lamar "Bo" Jackson is proving that he has the talent, work ethic, and physicality to make the name "Bo Jackson" synonymous with Ohio State greatness. Through his historic freshman performances and his versatile role in the Buckeyes' offense, he has transitioned from a high-profile recruit to an essential component of one of college football's most potent teams. As the 2025 season progresses and beyond, the football world will be watching to see just how far this new Bo can go.

FAQ

Is the Bo Jackson at Ohio State related to the legendary Bo Jackson?

No, Lamar "Bo" Jackson is not related to the legendary multi-sport athlete Vincent "Bo" Jackson. The shared name is a coincidence.

What position does Bo Jackson play for Ohio State?

He plays running back (RB) for the Ohio State Buckeyes. He is also utilized occasionally as a receiver out of the backfield or in the slot.

Where did Bo Jackson go to high school?

He attended Villa Angela-St. Joseph (VASJ) High School in Cleveland, Ohio, where he was a standout four-star recruit.

What are Bo Jackson's stats so far at Ohio State?

In his freshman 2025 season, through the first eight games, he recorded 613 rushing yards on 95 carries with two rushing touchdowns, plus 124 receiving yards and one receiving touchdown.

Did the legendary Bo Jackson ever play for Ohio State?

No. Vincent "Bo" Jackson played his college football at Auburn University, where he won the Heisman Trophy in 1985. He never played for the Ohio State Buckeyes.