By Mark Pszonak
Ohio State had to reload at several positions after winning the National Championship in January. One of these was at running back, where transfer CJ Donaldson (West Virginia) has transformed his body since his arrival in Columbus
CJ Donaldson said he’s 18 lbs lighter since arriving at Ohio State. Donaldson said he feels like he’s running like the “Flash” right now. pic.twitter.com/hqplOGrCta
— Dillon Davis (@DillonDavis56) March 19, 2025
Donaldson was listed at 238-pounds on the official roster during his last two seasons at West Virginia. Now, likely in the 220-pound range, that should add a new dynamic to his running style.
With the Mountaineers, he was usually the “thunder” to Jahiem White’s “lightening”. The two backs successfully complemented one another in Morgantown, but now Donaldson may be more of a lightening/thunder hybrid.
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Donaldson was successful in his role at West Virginia, rushing for 2,058 yards and 30 touchdowns during his three seasons. While the loss of weight should increase his speed and big-play ability, will it slow him down around the goal line, where he rushed for 22 touchdowns the last two seasons?
The positives outweigh the negatives though, as a more dynamic Donaldson will only make the Ohio State more potent. And what is good for the Buckeyes is bad for the rest of the Big Ten.
