Mon Oct 14 05:50:00 UTC 2024: ## Boise State Star Ashton Jeanty Credits Faith for Transformation
Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty, a Heisman Trophy frontrunner, has attributed his success both on and off the field to his faith. In an interview with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Jeanty revealed that he struggled with depression and lost his relationship with God during his freshman year at Boise State. However, after recommitting to his faith, he experienced a complete transformation, both as an athlete and as a person.
“I like to say that I’m a Christian cleverly disguised as an All-American running back,” Jeanty shared in a video interview. “I’ve learned that God has blessed me with amazing talents. I’ve been able to do a lot of great things, but at the same time, I don’t lose myself in it. I understand my identity is in Christ.”
Jeanty’s freshman season saw him rush for 821 yards and seven touchdowns. But after finding solace in his faith, his sophomore year became a breakout season, with a career-high 1,347 rushing yards. This season, he has solidified his position as the nation’s leading running back, leading the nation in rushing yards, yards per game, rushing touchdowns, and yards per carry.
“Once I decided to give my life to Him and change my ways, it’s been an ultimate transformation,” Jeanty said. “I feel that everything I’m doing now is because of that. Obviously, I’ve been able to do some great things on the field, but beyond that, He’s changed my life. He’s changed my views, my personality. I felt that I wasn’t really a man before. I was just a boy. But now I feel like I’m a man and a man of God.”
Jeanty credits the supportive Christian community at Boise State for his personal growth. He feels welcomed and supported, which allowed him to find his faith again. He encourages others to trust in God, saying, “You don’t have to be perfect to come to God, but all you have to do is trust in Him and have faith in Him, and He will change your life.”
First Piper 