Jonah Coleman is making waves in college football with a remarkable start for the Washington Huskies. Already responsible for ten touchdowns in just three games, the senior running back is outperforming many of his peers in the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) this season. Unlike his fellow rushing leaders, who have played four games, Coleman has managed these impressive statistics in a shorter time frame, showcasing his outstanding abilities.
Washington now faces its biggest challenge of the season as they prepare to take on No. 1-ranked Ohio State in their Big Ten opener. The Buckeyes boast the nation’s leading scoring defense and have yet to allow a rushing touchdown this season. It’s a formidable opponent, but Coleman’s versatility and ability to perform under pressure might just provide the spark needed for an upset.
Coleman stands out not only for his ground game, averaging 6.8 yards per carry, but also for his impressive performance as a receiver, with an average of 18.8 yards per catch. His dual-threat capabilities make him a challenge for defenses to handle. His explosive play rate, which measures big gains on carries or receptions, is higher than any other FBS running back with at least 30 touches this season.
So far, Coleman has joined an elite group of players with his level of production. Since 2000, only a few have averaged 150+ scrimmage yards per game with at least 10 total touchdowns in the first three games. His performance places him alongside renowned players like Chester Taylor, Lamar Jackson, Jonathan Taylor, and Mohamed Ibrahim.
Ohio State head coach Ryan Day acknowledges Coleman’s multifaceted skills, describing him as a physical and talented player with excellent vision and receiving abilities. Despite being a recent transfer from Arizona, Coleman has seamlessly integrated into Washington’s high-scoring offense. He’s already equaled his total touchdowns from 13 games last season, having accumulated a substantial 2,780 scrimmage yards in his college career.
This weekend’s match against Ohio State presents Coleman with an opportunity to establish a defining moment in his career. The game is set to be a true test of his breakout season’s sustainability against one of the toughest defenses in the country. Fans can watch this pivotal matchup on CBS or stream it through CBSSports.com, the CBS Sports App, or Paramount+ Premium on Saturday, September 27, at 3:30 p.m. ET from Husky Stadium in Seattle.