Top 3 landing spots for four-star running back Shahn Alston to the Class of 2026 ft. Penn State

Four-star running back Shahn Alston from Harvey High School in Painesville, Ohio, is among the rising juniors in the nation. He revealed his top-8 schools this week: Auburn, Missouri, Nebraska, Michigan State, Wisconsin, Florida, Penn State and USC.

The 5-foot-9, 205-pound prospect has recorded 131 carries for 1,104 yards and 15 touchdowns in eight games this season while catching 14 passes for 184 yards and a score. ESPN ranked him the No. 81 overall prospect in the nation, the No. 8 running back in the 2026 class and the No. 3 recruit in Ohio.

Alston told On3 he wants to commit by his senior season. Let's see which three programs have the most potential to secure his pledge.

Top 3 programs vying for Shahn Alston's commitment

3. Michigan State

According to On3, Michigan State has a 9.8% chance of securing Alston's commitment. In an interview with On3, he explained his interest in the Spartans.

"I'm interested in Michigan State for a couple reasons," Alston said. "One they do a pretty good job in developing RBs which is a priority for me. I also believe the new staff will do a great job. And lastly they have a history in the Big Ten."

Michigan State has no committed players in its Class of 2026, but it remains the favorite to secure four-star running back Favour Akih and three-star running back Kory Amachree.

2. USC

Lincoln Riley's offensive scheme bodes well with the development of running backs. It is the major draw for Alston in the school.

"What caught my eye was the scheme USC uses with the running backs," Alston told Chris Trevino of USCFootball.com. "They run a lot of inside zone and counter; they also incorporate the backs in the passing game. These are all things I excel at, and I feel as if I can thrive in this offense."

USC's 2026 class ranks No. 4 with six committed players. The cycle has not yet secured any running back, making Alston a key target.

1. Penn State

According to On3, Penn State is the leader in Alston's commitment with a 23% chance of securing his commitment. He was in attendance during the Nittany Lions' game against Ohio State on Nov. 2. Despite witnessing the school's 20–13 loss to the Buckeyes, he declared it one of his top teams following the trip.

“They’ve done a great job and I am looking forward to continue building my relationship with them," Alston told On3.

Penn State's track record and coaching staff also received heavy praise from Alston.

"Penn State as been a dominant team in the Big Ten forever, as well as having a track record of great running backs," Alston said. "That alone interest me. And secondly the people on staff, it felt like one family and everyone on the same page."

Penn State has seven committed players in its Class of 2026, ranking No. 10 in the nation. The cycle secured the commitment of four-star running back Messiah Mickens last year.