Saul Young/News Sentinel / USA TODAY NETWORK

Savion Hiter's comments after committing to Michigan make it sound like Tennessee never had a real chance to land him

Originally posted on A to Z Sports | By Zach Ragan | Last updated Aug 20, 2025 11:48 AM ET

The Tennessee Vols missed on one of their top 2026 recruiting targets on Tuesday when five-star running back Savion Hiter committed to the Michigan Wolverines.

Hiter committed to Michigan over Tennessee, Georgia, and Ohio State.

While Georgia and Ohio State were in the mix, it was widely believed that Tennessee and Michigan were the top two contenders for the five-star recruit.

And based on Hiter's comments after announcing his commitment, it sounds like Michigan was always out in front in this battle.

"I think it was Michigan, from the beginning, since we went there," said Hiter to 247Sports. "I think it was just from the first visit all the way to now. I think they (Hiter's family) wanted me to commit from the first part (visit)."

"Michigan is the place to be," added Hiter. "I mean, it's the best place in the world. You don't want to be nowhere different."

Breaking: Savion Hiter (@5starsavi), regarded by many as the No. 1-rated RB in the Class of 2026, has committed to the University of Michigan, per his advisor @coachmccannert. pic.twitter.com/WoGn8Xx3Ab
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) August 19, 2025

I know there are plenty of Vols fans who are frustrated that Tennessee missed on Hiter. And I get it. But I think it's pretty clear that there isn't much else the Vols' coaching staff could've done to win this battle.

Tennessee reportedly offered Hiter a similar NIL deal as Michigan, so this wasn't purely a money thing, either.

Hiter and his family just connected more with Michigan for whatever reason. They did their due diligence and built relationships with other schools to make sure they made the best decision for Hiter. But ultimately, Michigan is where he felt most at home. If you're Tennessee, you just have to tip your cap and move on to the next recruit.

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

More must-reads: