Written by: Quincy Bentley | Sports Editor
Boise State University running back Ashton Jeanty is taking the college football world by storm with his consistent record-breaking performances throughout the 2024 season. Not only is he the top contender for the Heisman Trophy this year, but the junior running back is also on pace to break Barry Sanders’ legendary single-season rushing record of 2,628 yards in one season. Jeanty’s sporadic play has brought him and his team national attention, with fans and scouts taking note of his ability to make plays from anywhere on the field.
The 20-year-old from Jacksonville, Florida, has proven himself to be an absolute weapon on Boise State’s offense, averaging a whopping 9.9 yards per carry in only six games. He also has racked up 126 rushes for 1,248 yards and 17 touchdowns this season, leaving him as one of the top rushers in the nation.
Other than his speed, another aspect of Jeanty’s athletic ability that stands out is his strength. The 5-foot-9-inch junior can bench press 320 pounds, power clean 300 pounds and even squat 600 pounds. Boise State head coach Spencer Danielson stated, “He once did 605 like it was nothing and he had to be cut off.”
Much of Jeanty’s success is attributed to his strength and conditioning work off the field. The statistics that he has put up this year are nothing but a testament to the hard work he has put in on and off the field. This level of physical fitness is rare among college running backs and has truly made him a nightmare matchup for opposing defenses.
Boise State currently holds a record of 5-1, with their only loss being to No. 1 University of Oregon. Although the Ducks came out of the game with the win, containing Ashton Jeanty was something they struggled with. Even against the powerhouse University of Oregon, Jeanty ran for 192 yards and scored three touchdowns. His performance almost allowed Boise State to pull off the upset, but instead, they gave Oregon their second-closest game, losing by only three points.
For now, Jeanty has made it clear that he is focused on one thing and one thing only: winning. No one has been able to stop him, and he doesn’t look like he’s slowing down anytime soon. The real question is will college teams continue to allow the Boise State running back to spoil their season?
Contact the author at howlsports@wou.edu
