Rich Rodriguez Hints at West Virginia’s Potential Backfield Shake-Up: Could Another Running Back Be on the Way?
West Virginia football could be on the verge of a major shift in its backfield as head coach Rich Rodriguez has strongly hinted at the possibility of adding another running back to the mix. While sophomore standout Jahiem White has been pegged as the team’s go-to option, Rodriguez’s latest comments suggest that the Mountaineers may not be done building depth at the position.
The potential addition of a new running back raises several intriguing questions about the team’s offensive strategy, depth concerns, and overall vision for the season. Will this move be a response to durability concerns, a desire to establish a more balanced attack, or simply an effort to maintain depth in case of injury?
In this article, we will break down what Rodriguez’s comments mean, examine West Virginia’s current running back situation, analyze potential candidates for the role, and explore the impact this move could have on the team’s offensive identity.
Rich Rodriguez’s Hint: A Cryptic Yet Telling Statement
Rodriguez, known for his candid yet strategic approach to roster management, made waves during a recent press conference when he alluded to the idea that West Virginia might not be done making moves at running back.
“We’ve got some good guys in the room already, but we’re always looking to add pieces that can help us compete at a high level,” Rodriguez said. “Jahiem [White] is a special player, no doubt about that, but we’ve got to make sure we’re ready for anything. It’s a long season, and you can never have too much talent in the backfield.”
While Rodriguez stopped short of explicitly confirming that another running back was on the way, his comments left the door wide open. The timing of these remarks is particularly interesting, as it comes just weeks before the season opener.
So, what exactly does this mean for West Virginia’s offense?
West Virginia’s Current Running Back Room: Strengths and Concerns
Before diving into the potential additions, it’s important to assess the state of the Mountaineers’ current running back situation.
Jahiem White: The Undisputed Lead Back
Jahiem White has firmly established himself as West Virginia’s top running back heading into the season. The sophomore back turned heads as a freshman with his explosive running style, elusiveness, and ability to make plays in space. White’s combination of vision, burst, and agility has made him a dynamic weapon in Rodriguez’s offense.
Last season, White rushed for over 700 yards and averaged an impressive 6.4 yards per carry, despite sharing touches in a crowded backfield. His ability to break long runs and make defenders miss makes him an invaluable asset for the Mountaineers.
However, the primary concern with White is whether he can handle a full-season workload as the undisputed No. 1 option. While he showcased durability last season, West Virginia’s coaching staff may be looking for another reliable back to complement him and take some of the pressure off.
The Depth Behind White: Unproven but Promising
Behind White, West Virginia has several intriguing but largely unproven options.
•CJ Donaldson Jr.: A big-bodied back who has shown flashes of power and physicality but has struggled with consistency.
•Justin Johnson Jr.: A change-of-pace back with solid speed but limited experience in key moments.
•Jaylen Anderson: Another depth piece who has had moments of promise but hasn’t cemented himself as a consistent contributor.
While these backs provide some depth, none have demonstrated the ability to consistently produce at the level needed for a top-tier rushing attack. This could be a major factor in Rodriguez’s desire to bring in another player.
Potential Running Back Targets: Who Could West Virginia Be Eyeing?
If West Virginia does decide to add another running back, there are several potential avenues to explore.
1. The Transfer Portal: A Quick Fix?
The transfer portal has become a game-changing tool in college football, allowing teams to address roster weaknesses almost immediately. Several experienced running backs remain available in the portal, and Rodriguez could be looking to add a proven playmaker.
Some potential targets could include:
•Alton McCaskill (Former Houston/Colorado RB) – A talented back who flashed elite potential as a freshman at Houston before injuries and a stint at Colorado stalled his career.
•Rahjai Harris (Former ECU RB) – A powerful runner with a physical style that could complement White’s speed and shiftiness.
•Treshaun Ward (Former Florida State/Kansas State RB) – A veteran back with good vision and the ability to contribute immediately.
2. A Late High School Addition?
Another possibility is that Rodriguez and his staff have their eyes on an under-the-radar high school recruit who has yet to commit. While less common at this stage of the offseason, West Virginia could be in discussions with a late-emerging prospect looking for a home.
3. Internal Development: Could Someone Already on the Roster Step Up?
It’s also possible that Rodriguez’s comments were meant to light a fire under his current running back room. By hinting at a potential addition, he may be challenging his existing players to step up and prove they deserve a bigger role.
How a New Running Back Would Impact West Virginia’s Offense
If West Virginia does indeed bring in another running back, the move could have a significant impact on the team’s offensive approach.
1. More Rotation in the Backfield
Rather than relying on White to be a 20+ carry-per-game workhorse, Rodriguez could opt for a committee approach, utilizing multiple backs to keep defenses guessing. This could also help keep White fresh for the latter part of the season.
2. A More Balanced Offensive Attack
West Virginia has historically leaned on a strong rushing attack under Rodriguez, and adding another back could allow the team to be more versatile in its play-calling. A power back could complement White’s speed, giving the Mountaineers more ways to attack defenses.
3. Insurance Against Injuries
Running back is one of the most physically demanding positions in football, and depth is crucial. If White were to miss time due to injury, having another proven option could be the difference between a successful season and a disappointing one.
Final Thoughts: Will Rodriguez Pull the Trigger on Another Addition?
While Rodriguez’s comments leave room for speculation, one thing is clear—West Virginia is not content with its current running back situation. Whether this means an immediate addition from the transfer portal, a late high school commitment, or simply a push for more development from the current roster, the Mountaineers are actively exploring ways to bolster their backfield.
For now, Jahiem White remains the focal point of West Virginia’s rushing attack, but it wouldn’t be surprising to see another name join the mix before the season kicks off. Whether that player will be a game-changer or simply a depth piece remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—Rodriguez isn’t done tweaking his roster just yet.
As the offseason unfolds, all eyes will be on West Virginia’s backfield to see if a new addition shakes up the depth chart. Fans should stay tuned because the Mountaineers’ running back room might not be set in stone just yet.
