Miami Hurricanes land visit with 4-star running back from Ohio

Miami is battling USC and Ohio State for Favour Akih.
Florida State v Miami
Florida State v Miami | Carmen Mandato/GettyImages

Four‑star running back Favour Akih, a prospect from Rutherford B. Hayes High in Ohio, is heading to Coral Gables for an official visit with the Miami Hurricanes on June 20–22. The three‑day trip rounds out a summer slate that includes stops at Ohio State (which is currently ongoing), and USC (June 13–15).

At 6‑feet and 190 pounds, Akih carries a 247Sports Composite ranking as the No. 14 running back nationally and the No. 166 overall recruit in the 2026 class. His stats in high school last season were impressive as he logged 1,781 rushing yards and 19 touchdowns, even with missing two games due to injury. He also reportedly holds a 100-meter dash time of 10.90 seconds and a 40-yard dash of 4.43 seconds.

Akih has narrowed his decision to three finalists: Miami, USC, and his home‑state favorite, Ohio State. Ohio State stands out for proximity and would allow Akih to stay close to home. The Buckeyes have handed him an offer and Akih spoke highly of preparing for big-stage football in Columbus.

Miami has made a late but strong push with Matt Merritt being the primary recruiter. While securing a visit was a necessary step for Miami, On3 predicts Akih will commit to Ohio State with 92.5% confidence. And Miami isn't even second on that list. Neither is USC for that matter. Pitt comes in at second with 2.6% on the RPM and Michigan State is 4th at 1.1%.

Akih has not set a firm commitment date but has hinted an announcement could come before his senior season begins. Landing him would mark a major win for Miami but it should be noted that Miami already has a commitment from a running back in the 2026 class. Fellow four-star Javian Mallory from West Boca Raton committed to the Hurricanes back in March.