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Former Ohio State assistant deals devastating blow to Buckeyes as nation's top recruit opts for biggest rival

Originally posted on A to Z Sports | By Ian Valentino | Last updated Aug 19, 2025 12:30 PM ET

The Ohio State Buckeyes didn't feel like favorites for five-star top running back Savion Hiter, but the worst-case scenario was even more painful than simply missing on him. Hiter was considering Tennessee, Georgia, and the Buckeyes, but ended up committing to Michigan on Tuesday morning. The 2026 superstar will now pair with Bryce Underwood in the Wolverines' backfield next fall.

The Virginia tailback stands 5-foot-11 and 200 pounds. He made his announcement live on YouTube, citing Michigan's history as a major reason for his decision. Given Ohio State's more recent success and ability to produce NFL running backs, this was a head-scratching decision in that light.

“Michigan has a lot of tradition and history of winning, and the running backs run similar plays to what I’m used to, so I could definitely see myself in that offense,” Hiter said.

BREAKING 5-star RB Savion Hiter has committed to Michigan〽️

Hiter is the No. 1 RB in the class.

Read: https://t.co/sdYM6ZGjv2 pic.twitter.com/95JECOiSa7
— Rivals (@Rivals) August 19, 2025

Former Ohio State running backs coach Tony Alford is who pulled Hiter, making this an even more difficult pill to swallow. Alford took a lateral job to Michigan last year, leading to Ohio State replacing him with Oregon's Carlos Locklyn.

“Coach Alford he’s a great coach,” Hiter has said. “He knows how to coach em right. He has a great relationship with all his running backs. (Alford) knows how to coach em up.

Here's Rivals' Director of Scouting Charles Power's scouting report on Hiter:

“Gifted runner with an advanced blend of athleticism, fluidity, and instincts as a high school underclassman. Physically developed, measuring in at over 5-foot-11 and around 200 pounds prior to his senior season. Registers as a strong athlete, running an 11.11 second mark in the 100-meters as a freshman. Also jumped close to 45 feet in the triple jump – an outstanding mark.

“Turned multiple dominant seasons as a high school underclassman, including a 1,698-yard, 26-touchdown junior campaign that saw him run for 10.8 yards per carry. Looks to be a natural runner. An extremely fluid and smooth mover who changes directions effortlessly. Shows excellent acceleration. Cuts on a dime and makes defenders miss in space. Runs with pace and instincts. A strong tackle-breaker who runs through contact due to a strong leg drive.”

This article first appeared on A to Z Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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