West Virginia’s Jahiem White Earns Prestigious Dark Horse Award Ahead of 2025 College Football Season
*August 8, 2025 | Morgantown, WV*
West Virginia sophomore running back Jahiem White continues to collect accolades and fuel preseason buzz as he was announced today as the 2025 recipient of the prestigious **Dark Horse Award**, an honor reserved for the nation’s most promising under-the-radar college football player poised for a breakout season.
The announcement came from the Dark Horse Foundation early Thursday morning, sending waves through the college football world. White, who dazzled fans and analysts alike during a strong finish to the 2024 season, becomes the first West Virginia player to earn the award in its 12-year history.
### A Rising Star in Morgantown
White burst onto the scene last season with an electrifying mix of speed, vision, and elusiveness. Despite limited touches early in the year, he quickly emerged as a key contributor for the Mountaineers, racking up 834 rushing yards and 7 touchdowns in just five starts. His breakout performance against Texas Tech—where he ran for 212 yards and two scores—put him on the national radar.
“Jahiem White is the definition of a dark horse,” said Marcus Fleming, chairman of the Dark Horse Foundation. “He was overlooked by most national media last year, but his talent, work ethic, and impact on the field are undeniable. We expect him to be one of the top backs in the country this fall.”
White was chosen from a pool of over 200 nominees across all FBS programs. The selection committee evaluated candidates based on statistical potential, leadership qualities, and their projected impact on the 2025 season.
### Coaches, Analysts Take Notice
West Virginia head coach Neal Brown spoke highly of his young star following the announcement.
“Jahiem’s growth over the past year has been incredible,” Brown said. “He’s humble, hungry, and ready to lead this team. The Dark Horse Award is well deserved, and I think he’s just scratching the surface.”
ESPN’s lead college football analyst David Pollack also weighed in on the news, calling White “one of the most explosive players in the Big 12.”
“He’s got that home-run ability every time he touches the ball,” Pollack said. “Defenses are going to have to game-plan around him.”
White’s recognition comes at a crucial time for the Mountaineers, who are looking to build on last season’s 8-5 campaign and push for a Big 12 title. With a retooled offensive line and a new quarterback under center, much of the offensive load will fall on White’s shoulders.
### Humble and Focused
For his part, White remains grounded despite the growing attention.
“It’s a blessing, man,” White said in a media call Thursday. “I’m honored to be recognized, but my focus is on the team. We’ve got big goals this year, and I just want to help us win games.”
When asked about the increased expectations, White smiled and shrugged.
“Pressure makes diamonds,” he said. “I embrace it.”
Teammates say White’s leadership has grown as much as his skill set.
“He’s not the loudest guy in the locker room, but when he speaks, people listen,” said senior offensive lineman Wyatt Milum. “He leads by example. He’s the first one in the weight room and the last one off the field.”
### Eyes on the Future
As the 2025 season approaches, many analysts are projecting White as a top-10 Heisman contender and a potential early-round NFL Draft pick, should he decide to leave Morgantown after his junior year.
For now, though, the focus is on August 31st, when West Virginia opens its season at home against Virginia Tech in the revived “Battle for the Black Diamond” rivalry.
With the Dark Horse Award now in hand and the nation watching closely, Jahiem White will look to prove that the hype is real—and that the Mountaineers are ready to run.
