Eric Boggs
Ohio State added a major building block to its 2026 recruiting class on Sunday when four-star running back Favour Akih committed to the Buckeyes. The Delaware, Ohio native has long had Ohio State atop his list, and after months of communication with running backs coach Carlos Locklyn, several visits to campus, and witnessing the Buckeyes’ national championship celebration in January, he finally received the offer he had been hoping for during OSU’s first spring practice on March 17.
That moment changed everything. Just two days later, Akih named Ohio State, Miami, and USC as his final three and set official visits with each. But the decision never really felt in doubt. The connection he felt to Ohio State’s culture, championship tradition, and his lifelong passion for the program made Columbus feel like home. He visited the program four times this spring alone, and after his official visit this past weekend, he made the call—Akih is a Buckeye.
Akih becomes the 14th commitment in Ohio State’s 2026 class and is Locklyn’s first running back pledge in this cycle. Notably, he’s the sixth in-state prospect to join the fold, joining fellow Ohioans Sam Greer, Maxwell Riley, CJ Sanna, Jakob Weatherspoon, and Jaeden Ricketts. Locklyn is expected to pursue at least one more top-tier back to pair with Akih, with players like Savion Hiter and Derrek Cooper still high on the radar.
According to the 247Sports Composite, Akih ranks as the No. 166 overall player in the country and the No. 14 running back. He held 22 Division I offers from schools such as USC, Miami, Penn State, Michigan State, Louisville, and Wisconsin. His junior year numbers back up the hype: 1,653 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns, along with 142 receiving yards and three more scores.
What separates Akih on the field is his dynamic blend of strength, agility, and vision. He can cut on a dime and bounce between running lanes with ease. Whether it’s powering through the middle or breaking to the edge, he forces missed tackles at a high rate and consistently produces explosive plays. On top of that, he’s proven to be a reliable receiver and blocker, giving him the potential to be a three-down back at the next level.
While Akih may not be expected to shoulder a heavy load right away, he has the tools to contribute early and compete for meaningful carries by his second year in Columbus. For Ryan Day and his staff, Akih represents more than just talent—he’s a player who fits the program’s values. The Buckeyes are prioritizing team-first, character-driven players, and Akih checks every box.
As Ohio State continues building toward what could be a historic 2026 class, Favour Akih’s commitment is yet another reminder of why Buckeye Nation remains the envy of college football.
