Five-Star RB Savion Hiter Picks Michigan Over Tennessee, Bolstering 2026 Class

Michigan scored a major recruiting victory on Tuesday (August 19), landing five-star running back Savion Hiter out of Louisa County High School in Virginia. Ranked as the No. 1 RB and No. 11 overall recruit nationally by the On3 Industry Ranking, Hiter chose the Wolverines over Tennessee, Georgia, and Ohio State.

The recruitment came down to a fierce battle between Michigan and Tennessee, but consistency from the Wolverines paid off in the end.

Tony Alford’s Connection Seals the Deal

Hiter credited Michigan’s strong tradition of producing top-tier backs—like fellow Virginia native Blake Corum as a major factor. “They are a big program for running the ball,” he said. “I could see myself running in a Michigan jersey.”

A major influence in Hiter’s decision was Michigan running backs coach Tony Alford, who had recruited him since his time at Ohio State. “Coach Alford is a funny dude,” said Hiter. “But he’s also straight up with me. He tells me what I need to hear not just what I want to hear.” Standing 5-foot-11 and weighing 190 pounds, Hiter brings elite speed, vision, and power to Michigan’s future backfield.

Michigan’s 2026 Class Gains Star Power

With Hiter’s commitment, Michigan’s 2026 class now includes 23 players, among them five-star EDGE Carter Meadows, Top 100 OT Malakai Lee, and QB Brady Smigiel. The class currently ranks No. 11 nationally and No. 4 in the Big Ten, according to On3, trailing USC within the conference.

A Statement for Michigan’s Ground Game

Hiter’s addition signals Michigan’s continued commitment to power football. His talent aligns perfectly with the Wolverines’ run-heavy identity and could make him the program’s next standout back. As Michigan reloads for the future, this commitment might be the turning point that pushes their class into elite territory.

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