Ohio State freshman running back Isaiah West made the most of his opportunity Saturday, emerging as one of the breakout stars in the Buckeyes’ 34-0 win over Wisconsin.
West, a 5-foot-10, 210-pound freshman from Philadelphia’s St. Joseph’s Prep, rushed for 55 yards on nine carries, leading the team in rushing against the Badgers. His physical, downhill style gave Ohio State’s offense a spark as the Buckeyes leaned on their depth in the backfield.
Before the Wisconsin game, West had seen limited action, playing just 15 offensive snaps all season. But with the running game struggling to find consistency, coach Ryan Day turned to the freshman, who responded with power runs, quick cuts, and the ability to break tackles at the second level.
West signed with Ohio State as a three-star prospect in the 2025 recruiting class. Despite being overlooked by some national outlets, he arrived in Columbus with a reputation as a complete back capable of running between the tackles, catching passes out of the backfield, and holding his own in pass protection.
Scouting reports from his high school career praised West’s vision, burst, and balance, traits that were on full display in Madison. He averaged more than six yards per carry and earned praise from coaches and teammates for his poise in a hostile road environment.
“Isaiah’s been working his tail off,” Day said after the game. “He runs hard, he’s smart, and he gives us something we can build on.”
West’s emergence comes at a critical time for the Buckeyes, who have relied heavily on their passing game through the first half of the season for big plays. With the Big Ten schedule tightening and physical matchups ahead, Ohio State may have found a reliable complement to its aerial attack.
For West, the performance could mark the beginning of a larger role in the offense. As the Buckeyes push toward the College Football Playoff, the freshman’s blend of power and patience could make him one of the season’s biggest surprises in the Big Ten.
“Every time I get the ball, I just want to make something happen,” West said. “I’ve waited for my shot. Now it’s about proving I belong.”
