With Rich Rodriguez back at the helm in Morgantown, West Virginia fans are eagerly anticipating a return to the explosive offensive style that defined his first tenure. One player in particular stands out as a prime candidate to thrive in Rodriguez’s system—running back Jahiem White. As the Mountaineers prepare for the 2025 season, White is emerging as a legitimate Heisman Trophy contender.
During Rodriguez’s previous coaching stints, his offenses consistently featured dynamic rushing attacks. His history of developing elite running backs and dual-threat quarterbacks speaks for itself, with notable performances from players like Avon Cobourne, Steve Slaton, and Ka’Deem Carey. Given this track record, White’s potential to shine under Rodriguez’s guidance is undeniable.
White’s name has already surfaced in early Heisman discussions, though he remains an under-the-radar candidate. However, considering the success of Rodriguez’s past running backs—many of whom produced multi-thousand-yard seasons and double-digit touchdown campaigns—those whispers should grow into a resounding conversation as the season progresses.
Since joining West Virginia, White has showcased explosive playmaking ability, tallying 1,686 yards and 11 touchdowns over his first two seasons. Though he often played a complementary role alongside CJ Donaldson, who recently transferred to Ohio State, White is now set to be the focal point of the Mountaineers’ rushing attack in 2025. With an offense designed to maximize his strengths, he is in a prime position to put up staggering numbers.
For both White and Rodriguez, this partnership is an ideal match. White remains in an offensive system tailored to his skill set, eliminating any need for a transfer. Meanwhile, Rodriguez inherits a talented back without having to search the transfer portal. It’s a seamless transition that could prove to be one of the most productive player-coach pairings in college football this season.
West Virginia’s schedule presents White with numerous opportunities to showcase his talent on a national stage. The Mountaineers open against Robert Morris and Ohio, games in which White could quickly establish himself as a statistical leader. However, the true test comes on September 13th, when WVU faces its fierce rival, Pittsburgh, in a matchup that could solidify White’s Heisman campaign.
The competitive landscape of the Big 12 in 2024 provided plenty of high-profile moments, and 2025 should be no different. Marquee games against teams like Colorado, Arizona State, BYU, and Utah will give White the stage to prove himself against top-tier competition. Strong performances in these matchups will further bolster his case as a Heisman front-runner.
While White may not be a mainstream Heisman pick just yet, that is likely to change as the season unfolds. If he capitalizes on the opportunities ahead, by October and November, he could find himself squarely in the conversation for college football’s most prestigious individual award. With Rodriguez orchestrating the offense, the stars may be aligning for White to etch his name among the all-time greats at West Virginia.