MORGANTOWN, West Virginia — West Virginia’s worst fears may have just become reality. Sophomore running back Jahiem White, the explosive playmaker expected to be the centerpiece of Rich Rodriguez’s offense this year, suffered a serious injury in the loss to Ohio this past weekend and is expected to miss the rest of the season, per Matt Zenitz.
Coming into 2025, White wasn’t just another running back—he was the running back. After a freshman year that showed flashes of elite speed and game-breaking ability, expectations were sky-high. Rodriguez built his ground-heavy scheme around White’s ability to take a simple handoff and turn it into a 60-yard highlight reel. Losing him isn’t just losing a starter—it’s losing the identity of the offense.
Unfortunate injury news: West Virginia star running back Jahiem White is expected to miss the rest of the season due to a knee injury he suffered vs. Ohio Saturday, sources tell @CBSSports.
Was a preseason All-Big 12 selection. Ran for 845 yards and seven TDs last season. pic.twitter.com/trN0acw1SX
— Matt Zenitz (@mzenitz) September 8, 2025
The injury occurred in the first half against Ohio. After a short run up the middle, White came up limping and immediately signaled to the sideline. He was helped off the field and never returned to the game. Reports suggest it’s a lower-body injury, and those close to the program are preparing for the worst: a season-ending diagnosis.
Without White, West Virginia’s offense looks dramatically different. This is a devastating blow for a fanbase already reeling after the upset loss in Athens. Just one week ago, West Virginia was dreaming of a 10–2 season. Now, those expectations have crashed headfirst into reality. Losing White means the ceiling has dropped significantly, and even reaching bowl eligibility could be a struggle.
Rodriguez has always been known for adapting on the fly, but even he would admit that replacing a talent like Jahiem White is nearly impossible. The Mountaineers must find a way to grind out a win against rival Pitt and if they want to keep their season afloat.
For now, fans will have to accept the harsh reality: the Mountaineers’ most electrifying player may have taken his last snap of the 2025 season.
