CORVALLIS, OR – Salahadin Allah, Oregon State’s sophomore running back, is focused on refining the finer aspects of his game as he continues to build on a promising freshman year.
The La Marque, Texas native didn’t wait long to make an impact in college football. As a true freshman in 2024, Allah was initially slated as the third-string back, behind Jam Griffin and Anthony Hankerson.
However, due to an injury to Griffin, Allah was thrust into the role of Oregon State’s second running back, just months after graduating high school. Despite limited touches, Allah impressed, accumulating 55 rushes, 258 yards, and a touchdown by the end of the season.
Building on a Strong Freshman Campaign
Heading into the 2025 season, Allah has worked hard to expand his role within the Beavers’ offense. Over the offseason, he added 17 pounds to his 6-foot frame, now weighing in at 222 pounds.
Allah, known for his explosive style of running, admitted the transition to a bigger body has come with some challenges. He spoke about the “learning curve” involved in adjusting to the new weight, acknowledging that extra pounds make small mistakes more costly during drills.
“When you’re carrying more weight, your room for error is a lot smaller,” Allah said. “The more weight you’re carrying, it takes more effort when making cuts or changing directions.”
However, Allah’s remarkable 75-yard touchdown run in Oregon State’s first scrimmage of the 2025 season demonstrated his ability to adjust. Ray Pickering, Oregon State’s new running backs coach, praised the play, calling it the highlight of the scrimmage.
Pickering, who challenged Allah earlier that day to step up, believes Allah has the potential to develop into a complete, all-around running back.
The Path to the NFL: Focus on the Small Things
Allah’s NFL aspirations, while still some years away, are evident. As a true freshman, he impressed with his ability to run the ball, but he’s well aware that pass protection, special teams, and pass-catching are what will truly separate him from other running backs when it comes to making it to the next level.
“Being a good runner will get you a chance, but it’s the little things—like pass protection, special teams, and catching passes—that give you staying power,” Allah said.
In his discussions with Pickering, Allah has learned that pass protection is one of the most important areas for running backs in today’s NFL.
According to Allah, effective pass protection requires being in tune with the quarterback’s movements and seeing what they see. “You’ve got to be an expert at it,” Allah added. “It’s something that will really be your money maker.”
Special Teams and Future Development
Allah is also working on expanding his role in special teams, with a particular focus on becoming a potential kick returner for the Beavers.
This is another avenue where Allah hopes to contribute and make a name for himself, recognizing that excelling in special teams is crucial for players looking to solidify their roster spots, especially in the NFL.
Coach Pickering believes Allah’s physical attributes, combined with his focus on the details of his game, will make him a well-rounded player with long-term potential. “He has the tools,” Pickering said. “Now it’s about continuing to refine those details.”
Although Allah isn’t eligible for the NFL Draft until after his junior year in 2026, his work ethic and determination to master all aspects of the running back position have already started to pay off.
The strides he makes as a sophomore not only benefit Oregon State’s offense but also bolster his chances for a successful professional career down the road.
The Beavers will begin their 2025 season on August 30, facing California at Reser Stadium in the first game of the year, marking a fresh start for Allah as he continues his development in college football.
