Vols Lose Out On Nation’s No. 1 Running Back To Michigan
Image: Savion Hiter/X
By Aidan Sidoti
Tennessee fans received disappointing news Tuesday morning as five-star running Savion Hiter announced his commitment to Michigan, choosing the Wolverines over Tennessee, Georgia, and Ohio State, per Rivals.
The 5-foot-11.5, 200-pound workhorse out of Mineral, Virginia, is ranked as the No. 1 running back in the 2026 cycle and the No. 9 overall prospect nationally. Hiter’s commitment gives the Wolverines a significant rise in the recruiting rankings, which now moves into the top-ten nationally and knocking the Volunteers out in the process.
The Vols attempted to make a late push for the Louisa County High School star, hosting Hiter on four visits during his recruitment, including his final official visit in late June that many believed would be a true needle mover for Hiter and his family.
Despite the efforts of Tennessee running backs coach De’Rail Sims, Michigan’s persistent effort and established relationship between Hiter and Wolverines running backs coach Tony Alford ultimately proved crucial in this recruitment.
With Hiter officially off the board, Josh Heupel and Co. continue to be without a running back commit in the 2026 cycle. As high school seasons kick off across the country, keep an eye on rising seniors who could surface as new targets for the Volunteers.
