Bo Jackson: Ohio State’s Freshman Phenom with a Legendary Name and a Story All His Own
There’s a new Bo Jackson making noise in college football-and while the name might sound like a throwback to the ‘80s, Ohio State’s breakout freshman running back is carving out his own legacy in Columbus.
With over 1,000 rushing yards in his debut season, Jackson has quickly emerged as the Buckeyes’ go-to option out of the backfield. He’s not just a freshman making waves-he’s become the primary ball carrier for one of the most storied programs in college football. And while the name “Bo Jackson” might turn heads for obvious reasons, this one’s got his own story-and it starts with family.
A Name That Echoes History-but This One’s All His
Yes, that Bo Jackson was a Heisman winner and two-sport legend. And yes, this Bo Jackson’s legal name is Lamar Jackson Jr.-which also happens to belong to an NFL MVP.
But there’s no relation to either of those stars. The shared names are a coincidence, not a connection.
This Bo Jackson got his nickname from his father, Lamar Jackson Sr., who grew up idolizing the original Bo. Back in the day, Lamar Sr. watched the Royals’ slugger and Raiders’ running back dominate on two fields, and when his son was born, the nickname just fit. “Bo” stuck early-and it’s been his identity ever since.
Built by Family, Coached by Dad
Jackson’s path to Ohio State wasn’t just about talent-it was about development. And that started at home.
His parents, Lamar Sr. and Andrea Jackson, laid the foundation, both in life and in football. Lamar Sr. wasn’t just a supportive dad-he was also his son’s coach during his freshman year at Villa Angela-St.
Joseph High School in Cleveland.
That time together wasn’t just about Xs and Os. It was about building habits, shaping mentality, and instilling the kind of work ethic that sticks when the spotlight gets brighter. That early coaching helped mold Bo into a player who doesn’t just flash big plays-he delivers consistency, week after week.
Climbing the Depth Chart the Hard Way
Heading into 2025, Jackson joined a crowded backfield that included CJ Donaldson. But instead of waiting his turn or relying on highlight-reel moments to get noticed, he earned his spot the old-fashioned way: consistent production. His rise wasn’t about one breakout game-it was about stacking solid performances and proving he could handle the workload.
And now? He’s the guy.
The Buckeyes are still figuring out how to balance touches between their running backs, but Jackson has clearly become the engine of the ground game. Head coach Ryan Day has praised his big-play potential, and it’s not hard to see why.
When Jackson hits the second level, you can feel the defense tense up-because he’s one cut away from breaking it open.
More Than Just a Name
Bo Jackson is the third son in his family to attend college, following in the footsteps of his older brothers, Omari and Ty Howard. But he’s the first to do it under the bright lights of Ohio Stadium, wearing scarlet and gray, and carrying the weight of a name that demands attention.
Still, for those wondering-no, he’s not related to that Bo Jackson. And no, he’s not the son of the Baltimore Ravens’ Lamar Jackson. But with the way he’s playing, it might not be long before future kids named “Bo” or “Lamar” are asked if they’re related to the Ohio State star.
This Bo Jackson is making his own name mean something. And if his freshman season is any indication, he’s just getting started.