The fierce rivalry between Ohio State and Michigan is heating up once again – this time on the recruiting trail.
Five-star running back Savion Hiter, one of the top prospects in the class of 2026, has both Big Ten powerhouses locked in a head-to-head battle for his commitment, according to recruiting experts.
Hiter, a dynamic two-way athlete from Louisa County High School in Mineral, Virginia, is rated as the No. 1 running back, No. 1 player in Virginia, and the No. 11 overall prospect nationally, per On3.
While it’s still early in the 2026 recruiting cycle, the coming months could prove decisive in the race for Hiter, who has drawn interest from top programs around the country.
He announced a final four of Ohio State, Michigan, Georgia, and Tennessee earlier this year and has a packed official visit schedule ahead.
Both On3’s Steve Wiltfong and Chad Simmons report that the battle is currently being led by Ohio State and Michigan, though their forecasts differ slightly on which school holds the edge.
Hiter is scheduled to visit Ohio State on May 30, followed by Georgia on June 6, Michigan on June 13, and Tennessee on June 20. These visits are expected to play a major role in determining where he lands.
Standing 5-foot-11 and weighing 200 pounds, Hiter dominated on both sides of the ball in 2024.
He racked up 1,698 rushing yards and 26 touchdowns, added 199 receiving yards, and made a major impact on defense with 56 tackles, 7 sacks, and an interception. He also scored three touchdowns as a return specialist.
This latest recruiting showdown adds another layer of intensity to the rivalry between Ryan Day’s Buckeyes, who are coming off a national championship and a No. 5 recruiting class in 2025, and Sherrone Moore’s Wolverines, who recently brought in the No. 6 class.
As the summer unfolds, all eyes will be on Hiter’s visits and decision – with Ohio State and Michigan once again vying for supremacy, only this time, it’s not on the field, but in the living room of one of the nation’s top high school stars.
What are your thoughts on Hiter’s recruitment? … At the end of the day, where do you think he will end up???
