Pitt Commit RB Israel Abanikanda Plans On Fighting For 2020 Starting Job

Pitt currently has commitments from two running backs in their Class of 2020 but with the uncertainty surrounding Henry Parrish that could shrink to to just one.

One thing that’s certain is that Israel Abanikanda will keep his commitment and plans on making an immediate impact.

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The 3-star running back from Brooklyn, New York is having a fantastic senior season and is coming off a game in which he totaled 240 total yards scored four touchdowns (2 rush, 1 receiving and 1 kickoff return of 93 yards).

When Pitt coaches hit the road recruiting on Monday, Abanikanda was one of the first players the staff visited as Andre Powell stopped by Abraham Lincoln High School on Monday.

#HotPlay! Sweet pitch & catch. #Lincoln QB @hubbard_jah finds @Player_Pager member & @Pitt_FB commit @IAbanikanda for the sweet 31 yd score. Nice over-the-shoulder grab Izzy! @RumbleRaritan

Catch all the action on the new, free @Player_Pager App.#PowerToThePlayers! @oc_lincoln pic.twitter.com/LhoJh30KAN

— PlayerPager (@Player_Pager) September 8, 2019

“Coach Powell came to my school Monday. He wanted to know how everything is going and asked if I’m healthy and if my body is still in shape,” said Abanikanda. “I told him that I’ve been working out during the season to keep my body in shape and so far I’m having a tremendous senior year.”

Courtesy of Israel Abanikanda

Considering Pitt’s current running back depth chart and his size and skill set, it’s not out of the question that Abanikanda could be in the running for playing time next season.

”He also watched some of my practice. He says that he could tell that me and my team works hard by watching us compete. He had to leave early to catch his flight though.”

Abanikanda wants to finish his high school season strong but admits that he’s excited to join the Panthers and continue their winning ways.

“I’ve seen a lot from Pitt this year. They have a lot of playmakers on both sides of the ball,” said Abanikanda. “I see coaches and players that want to win. I could definitely see myself having playing time next year. But it’s all in God’s hand and in due time.”

Lincoln's Israel Abonikunu breaks a big one, 49 yards for a RailSplitter TD! 2 point conversion no good.
5:26 4Q | @StepinacSports 34, Lincoln 14 pic.twitter.com/h7iOPBlenq

— Ray Teodora (@rayteodora1) September 7, 2019