Ohio State's Running Back Depth Impresses in Spring Practice

Freshman Favour Akih shines as Buckeyes deal with injuries at the position.

Apr. 4, 2026 at 6:08pm

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Despite missing their top two running backs, Ohio State's backfield depth showed promise during the team's spring practice session. Freshman Favour Akih stood out with a strong performance, earning praise from running backs coach Carlos Locklyn and scoring twice in red zone drills. Veteran transfer Ja'Kobi Jackson also impressed, providing optimism for the Buckeyes' ground game heading into the summer.

Why it matters

Ohio State's running game is a crucial part of their offensive attack, so the development of depth at the position is key. With injuries sidelining the top backs, the emergence of players like Akih and Jackson could give the Buckeyes more options and flexibility in the backfield.

The details

Freshman running back Favour Akih stood out during Ohio State's spring practice session, flashing his potential despite the absence of the team's top two running backs. Akih hit holes well, following his blockers, and scored twice in red zone drills. While he made some mistakes that were pointed out by coach Locklyn, Akih's performance was a bright spot for the Buckeyes' backfield depth. Veteran transfer Ja'Kobi Jackson also took part in reps and looked comfortable. With Bo Jackson and Isaiah West expected back healthy, and the versatile Legend Bey also in the mix, Ohio State's running back room could have several options to rely on this season.

  • Ohio State held its annual Student Appreciation Day practice on Saturday, April 4, 2026.

The players

Ryan Day

The head coach of the Ohio State Buckeyes football team.

Carlos Locklyn

The running backs coach for the Ohio State Buckeyes.

Favour Akih

A freshman running back for the Ohio State Buckeyes who stood out during spring practice.

Ja'Kobi Jackson

A transfer running back who participated in reps during Ohio State's spring practice.

Bo Jackson

A returning second-year running back for the Ohio State Buckeyes.

Isaiah West

A returning second-year running back for the Ohio State Buckeyes.

Legend Bey

A freshman running back for the Ohio State Buckeyes who was limited in spring practice.

Anthony 'Turbo' Rogers

A running back on the Ohio State Buckeyes roster.

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What they’re saying

“Favour Akih flashed a few times during team drills, earning loud praise from running backs coach Carlos Locklyn on a handful of occasions.”

— Andrew Gillis, Reporter

“When returning second-year running backs Bo Jackson and Isaiah West come back to the lineup healthy, the Buckeyes will likely have their tandem at the top settled. Then, when Bey (who Day called a poor man's Tyreek Hill in the winter) is full-go, Ohio State will have a versatile chess piece on the offense to rely upon.”

— Andrew Gillis, Reporter

What’s next

When Ohio State's top running backs return from injury, the coaching staff will have to determine the depth chart and playing time for the various options in the backfield.

The takeaway

Ohio State's running back depth, which was a concern heading into spring practice, showed promising signs of development. While the Buckeyes are still dealing with injuries, players like Favour Akih and Ja'Kobi Jackson demonstrated their potential, providing optimism for the ground game's future.