Here’s a polished, in-depth analysis of five-star running back Savion Hiter’s recruitment—instead of a raw dump, I’ve crafted a comprehensive, structured overview that highlights all the key developments, dynamics, and projections surrounding his potential landing spot, particularly focused on how Tennessee’s Josh Heupel is intensifying efforts for the 2026 class.
- Name: Savion “Cinco” Hiter
- Position: Running Back
- Class: 2026
- Size: ~5’11–5’11.5″, 200 lbs
- Hometown: Mineral, Virginia (Louisa County High School)
- Key Stats (Junior Year):
- ~1,698 rushing yards on 156 carries (10.8 YPC)
- 29 total TDs (26 rushing, 3 kick returns)
- Also recorded 56 tackles, 7 sacks, INTs on defense
- Athleticism:
- Elite speed and quickness: 1.52 s 10-yd split, 4.12 shuttle, 36″ vertical (Rocky Top Insider)
- On3 and 247 praise his burst, power, vision, and balance—label him a five-tool RB prospect(
- Rankings:
- Five-star recruit, the nation’s No. 1 RB in the 2026 class; top 13–20 overall depending on the service (e.g., 13th in 247 composite)(Rocky Top Insider)
By early 2025, Hiter trimmed his list to four elite programs: Tennessee, Michigan, Georgia, Ohio State(SBNation.com).
Official Visit Timeline (June 2025):
- Ohio State: May 30–June 1
- Georgia: June 6–8
- Michigan: June 13–15
- Tennessee: June 19–22 (final official visit)(rockytoptalk.com)
This timeline frames Tennessee as the last pitch, a strategic edge for Heupel’s staff(All for Tennessee).
Historic Ties & Intensity
- Tennessee began recruiting Hiter back in 2023; he’s visited campus multiple times (Kentucky game in Nov ’24, spring 2025)(Athenaeum News).
- Tennessee’s running backs coach De’Rail Sims and player personnel staff have made in-home visits to build strong bonds (On3).
- Hiter himself has praised the Vols’ program:
- Hiter posted via social media
Tennessee’s Momentum
- A recent resurgence means Tennessee has the last official visit, giving them final momentum before the NCAA dead period (EssentiallySports).
- On3 insiders note Tennessee is a “real dark horse” and could climb to front of the pack(EssentiallySports).
- EssentiallySports highlights that Tennessee’s staff, relationships, and timing are surging—Heupel’s Vols might steal the show (EssentiallySports).
4. Competition Breakdown
Michigan
- Momentum fades slightly, but remains a top contender:
- Coach Tony Alford, who recruited Hiter at Ohio State, joined Michigan and maintained that relationship(On3).
- Hiter’s mother emphasized Michigan’s consistent communication and inclusiveness as building “the bar very high”(Maize n Brew).
- Michigan has produced strong NFL RBs (e.g., Blake Corum, Donovan Edwards), matching Hiter’s scheme fit and development needs(Sportscasting | Pure Sports).
Georgia
- Early strong showing: Hiter publicly called Georgia a “real contender” after the June visit(Sportscasting | Pure Sports).
- On3 predictions peg Georgia’s chances around 23–28%, trailing OSU but still formidable.
Ohio State
- Official first visit strong, but hasn’t surged since(Sportscasting | Pure Sports).
- On3 gives OSU about 27% chance—slightly ahead of Georgia, Michigan, and Tennessee.
Recruiting Odds (On3’s RPM Mid-June 2025)
- OSU: ~27%
- Georgia: ~23.6%
- Tennessee: ~17–18%
- Michigan: ~14–15%(
Michigan currently leads public perception following Georgia/OSU visits, but Tennessee’s final push could swing it.
- 2026 class flagship: Tennessee already has commit Faizon Brandon (top QB) and tackle David Sanders Jr.(Hiter would complement their 4‑star RB class to anchor the backfield.
- The Vols offense under Heupel is gaining momentum, NIL packages are competitive, stadium atmosphere is electric
- Heupel-led classes deliver—and fan sentiment suggests strong support (Reddit).
- Michigan fans top Hiter in SB Nation Reacts polls; 65% want him(Maize n Brew).
- But after his Tennessee visit, some backlash from opposing fanbases stirred talk about aggressive recruiting(EssentiallySports).
- On3 and EssentiallySports spotlight Tennessee as gaining steam—but reiterate Michigan’s system fit and coaching relationships remain strong(EssentiallySports).
- With official visits finished by June 22, Hiter’s decision window opens mid-to-late summer.
- NCAA’s dead period follows, meaning Tennessee’s timing as last visit matters; final impressions may hold outsized weight(EssentiallySports).
Tactical Advantages:
- Michigan: Historical track record (Corum/Edwards), scheme, stable communication
- Georgia: Recent momentum during official visit
- Ohio State: First-visit momentum and pipeline
- Tennessee: Heupel’s offensive vision, strong in-person chemistry, last visit timing
Ultimately, the decision rests on Hiter’s blend of relationships, feel for the campus off the field, and offensive opportunity—including NIL support and long-term development.
- Imminent: After June 22, expect final recruiting materials, visits from NIL reps (if applicable), private conversations.
- Summer 2025: Commitment reveal window—perhaps late July or early fall, before national letters of intent.
Josh Heupel has intensified Tennessee’s opportunity to land the nation’s top RB for 2026. By orchestrating a compelling final visit—and sensing momentum via relationships and on-campus energy—the Vols are a serious contender.
Still, Michigan has a formula that’s worked: trusted staff, updated scheme, proven path to the NFL, and a sincere, sustained pitch. Georgia and Ohio State shouldn’t be discounted either—they each bring top-tier football ecosystems and strong pitches.
Savion Hiter has the right to choose the best personal and athletic fit. Whoever he selects, expect them to land a transformative talent whose upside on and off the field is sky high. And for Tennessee, a landing this big would signal that Heupel isn’t just building a class, but weaving a legacy at Rocky Top.