Sometimes players are simply not a fit at one school, but suddenly look reborn at another.

It is a weird concept that doesn’t always make sense, but for former Wisconsin Badgers running back Dilin Jones, that might have just been the case.

Jones’ struggles at Wisconsin were evident

Jones spent two seasons with the Badgers in 2024 and 2025. Throughout that time, the team had compiled just nine wins; combine that with an offensive coordinator change splitting the two seasons, and you can see why Jones pulled together just 388 yards and two rushing touchdowns across 92 carries. 

However, since making the move to the SEC for the LSU Tigers, Jones has finally been given the platform to succeed. 

Jones ranks among the top 30 rushers in the country

In year one under Lane Kiffin, the former four-star running back has totaled 667 yards across 149 carries, averaging 4.5 yards per carry, along with six rushing touchdowns this season. Jones’ 667 yards is the 21st-best in the nation for an overall offense that sits 7th nationally in offensive yards per game, averaging 478.4 yards per game. 

Jones has also reeled in an impressive 217 yards through the air, averaging 7.2 per reception, confirming himself as more than just a rushing threat for a potential college football playoff contender.