Michigan Freshman Savion Hiter Impresses in Spring Game

Hiter's physical running style has him on the fast track to playing time this fall.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 10:48pm

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Michigan football fans got their first glimpse of freshman running back Savion Hiter in the team's spring game, where he turned 10 carries into 44 yards and flashed the type of downhill, physical running style that has coaches excited about his potential. Hiter, a former five-star recruit, has spent the offseason bulking up and improving his pass protection, putting himself in position to earn significant playing time this fall.

Why it matters

Michigan has developed a reputation for producing tough, physical running backs in recent years, and Hiter appears to be the next in line. His performance in the spring game suggests he could be a key contributor to the Wolverines' offense this season as they look to build on last year's success.

The details

Hiter, who arrived at Michigan in January weighing 197 pounds, is now up to 218 pounds after an intensive offseason in the weight room. His new, more muscular frame has him better prepared to handle the rigors of the Big Ten schedule. Coaches have also praised his improvement in pass protection, an area he focused on improving this spring. In the spring game, Hiter showed off his physical running style, averaging 4.4 yards per carry and impressing head coach Kyle Whittingham, who called him 'one of the real bright spots' of the day.

  • Hiter arrived at Michigan in January 2026.
  • Hiter participated in Michigan's spring game on April 18, 2026.

The players

Savion Hiter

A freshman running back at the University of Michigan who impressed with his physical running style in the team's spring game.

Jordan Marshall

The incumbent starting running back at Michigan, who has served as a mentor to Hiter since his arrival on campus.

Tony Alford

Michigan's running backs coach, who has been coaching up Hiter since he arrived on campus in January.

Kyle Whittingham

The head coach of the Michigan Wolverines football team, who praised Hiter's performance in the spring game.

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What they’re saying

“'I mean, I'm learning a lot from Jordan Marshall and TA (Tony Alford). They've been coaching me up every day. Jordan is basically my mentor.'”

— Savion Hiter, Michigan Freshman Running Back

“'Savion Hiter really showed that he's an explosive back. He didn't get loose out in the open, but he's a powerful back that's going to be a big factor for us this fall.'”

— Kyle Whittingham, Michigan Head Coach

What’s next

Hiter will look to continue his strong offseason and cement his role as the Wolverines' No. 2 running back behind Jordan Marshall when Michigan opens fall camp in August.

The takeaway

Savion Hiter's impressive performance in Michigan's spring game suggests he could be the next in a line of physical, downhill running backs to star for the Wolverines. His offseason work in the weight room and focus on pass protection have him poised to make an immediate impact this fall.