4-star RB Favour Akih down to three schools

Delaware (Ohio) Hayes four-star running back Favour Akih, one of the top 2026 prospects in the Buckeye State, tells On3’s Hayes Fawcett that he’s down to three schools.

Miami, Ohio State and USC are the trio of finalists for the 5-foot-11, 185-pounder.

“Thank you to all the teams who took a chance on be, and I’m thankful for all the relationships we have made along the way! But I am officially down to three schools,” Akih wrote on X.

Akih is the No. 214 overall prospect and No. 18 RB in the 2026 cycle, according to the On3 Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies. He’s also the No. 8 player in Ohio.

As a junior last season, Akih rushed for 1,653 yards and 15 touchdowns, per MaxPreps. He also caught nine passes for 142 yards and three scores. The blue-chipper also doubles as a linebacker for Hayes High.

Akih is coming off a visit to Ohio State this week, where he finally landed an offer from the in-state Buckeyes. They immediately jumped to the top of his list and are now battling the Hurricanes and Trojans for his pledge.

“Yeah being an in-state kid Ohio State automatically jumps into my top three,” Akih told On3’s Steve Wiltfong after the visit. “It’s a blessing being able to play for your home town, and bring back big wins to your home town.”

Official visits to USC (June 6) and Miami (June 20) have already been locked in for Akih. There’s plenty that’s caught his eye in Los Angeles and Coral Gables throughout his recruitment.

“I love the relationship I have with the entire staff as of right now,” he previously said of USC. “So being able to spend a weekend with them would be great, I want to see the life outside of football, I want to see the networking and internship opportunities! I want to learn about their long built culture and how strong their community is.”

“I see their program is heading in the right direction,” he said of the Canes. “They are running the ball extremely well! I want to meet Coach (Mario) Cristobal and see how he sets the team up for success every single day! I want to get a taste of the amazing weather in Miami and escape the cold! And further my relationship with coach Merritt as well.”