WVU HC Neal Brown Details Plans for Run Game, Use of Top Backs

It’s no secret the West Virginia Mountaineers want to run the football. And run game will once again be the driving force of the WVU offense in 2024. Head coach Neal Brown addressed his rushing attack at the Big 12 Media Days event, describing how he plans to keep both of his elite runners happy.

While any expected the emergence of 2023’s freshman sensation Jahiem White to lead to CJ Donaldson deciding to transfer, both running backs made the choice to remain committed to the Mountaineers for another season. Brown’s job is now to make sure both are provided an opportunity to shine and keep the Mountaineer ground game balanced.

“We’ll continue — I think offensive football is about getting your best players to football any way possible. And so we have Jahiem White coming back who I think is dynamic. He finished the year off really strong. And he’s only going to be a sophomore. So I think he’s ready to take the next step, be a premier player,” said Brown.

WVU running back Jahiem White celebrates his touchdown against UNC in the Duke’s Mayo Bowl at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, N.C. on Dec. 27, 2023. (Mitchell Northam / WV Sports Now)

But he, of course, didn’t forget about his other back – the freshman sensation from 2022. “CJ Donaldson was kind of beat up last year. He’s a big, powerful running back. I think he’ll go back and show, remind our fan base and college football fans across the country what he showed as a freshman and the type of potential he has. And then Garrett Greene is an elite runner.”

Fortunately for WVU, each running back compliments the other one. White is smaller, but elusive and able to hide between lineman. Conversely, Donaldson’s size makes him a force to be a recognized with and a tough tackle for any defender. The hope is Donaldson’s tough stretch from 2023 is behind him and he’s fully healthy in the fall.

Kelsie LeRose / WVSN

Brown knows he has far more at his disposal than just the running backs. He also detailed how receivers can get involved as well, including a first-year top recruit.

We also have some receivers we get involved with. Rodney Gallagher we used a lot last year and DayDay Farmer. We’ll use him. Enough touches going around. That’s part of the game plan. You’ve got to figure out how to get your best people the ball and get them in a situation in space where they can make plays.”

For a related story, find out where White ranks among the top running backs in the Big 12.

Where Does WVU’s Jahiem White Rank Among Big 12 Running Backs?