Ohio State running back Ja’Kobi Jackson will not play against Indiana on Saturday, according to the Buckeyes’ initial availability report released Wednesday. The Ja’Kobi Jackson injury news arrives days before one of the biggest games of Ohio State’s season, a matchup against the defending national champion that carries weight in both the Big Ten championship race and the College Football Playoff picture.
Jackson has rushed for 354 yards and six touchdowns on 59 carries this season. His absence leaves Ohio State’s running back rotation thinner ahead of Saturday against the defending national champion.
What The Report Said About Jackson’s Status
Jackson was listed as unavailable on Ohio State’s Wednesday availability report for Saturday’s game. The team provided no details about the injury type or a return timeline.
Offensive tackle Austin Siereveld is also out for Indiana, marking his second straight missed game. The Buckeyes’ offense will face Indiana without both Jackson and their starting left tackle.
Running Back Rotation Facing A Gap
With Jackson sidelined, Ohio State’s running back depth is tested against the defending national champion. The Buckeyes will need production from their remaining running backs, and the offensive line, already missing Siereveld, will be crucial to establishing balance without Jackson’s complement to the ground attack.
Season Context For Jackson
Jackson’s 354 rushing yards and six touchdowns in his first six games made him Ohio State’s complement back in the ground game. Indiana’s defense will not have to account for him on Saturday.
What’s Next
Ohio State hosts Indiana on Saturday. The game carries major implications for both the Big Ten championship race and the College Football Playoff. Hoover leads an explosive Hoosiers offense, while the Buckeyes are forced to adapt without Jackson in the backfield. The next update on Jackson’s status is expected closer to kickoff.
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