Savion Miller is quickly becoming a name to know in Midwest recruiting circles-and for good reason. The Iowa City (Iowa) junior running back has been turning heads with both his production on the field and the growing interest he's drawing from Power Five programs, especially Minnesota.
Miller, a sturdy 5-foot-10, 195-pound back, put together an eye-catching junior season. He racked up 1,068 rushing yards at a blistering 8.4 yards per carry, found the end zone 16 times on the ground, and added another layer to his game through the air-hauling in 16 receptions for 338 yards and nine touchdowns. That kind of versatility is exactly what coaches love to see in today’s multi-dimensional backs.
Minnesota has been on Miller’s radar for a while, and the feeling appears to be mutual. He camped with the Gophers over the summer, and his performance helped land him an offer following a game day visit this fall. Since then, the relationship has only deepened.
"I'm hearing mostly from Mizzou and Minnesota right now," Miller said. "They are telling me they value me and want to continue building relationships and they want me to come down for some more visits and hopefully commit one day."
That kind of consistent communication is key in the recruiting world, and Minnesota’s staff is clearly making Miller a priority. Running backs coach Mo Ibrahim-yes, the same Mo Ibrahim who once carved up Big Ten defenses in maroon and gold-is now playing a pivotal role in Miller’s recruitment.
"Coach Ibrahim came by the school last month," Miller shared. "He was just saying that he really likes me and that I'm a big priority.
He wants to continue building a relationship. He wants to get me down to Minnesota a couple more times and he might come down for a home visit."
That personal touch, especially from a former standout who knows what it takes to succeed in the Gophers’ system, seems to be resonating. And when you add in Minnesota’s proximity to home, strong facilities, and a coaching staff that Miller says he “loves,” it’s easy to see why the Gophers are in a strong position.
"The Gophers are definitely high on my radar," he said. "I love the coaches, it's close to home, the facilities are great and they have a great environment.
There's lots of things on why. I'll be back up to see a spring practice."
With spring visits on the horizon and relationships continuing to build, Miller’s recruitment is one to watch closely. Minnesota has laid the groundwork-and now it’s about continuing the momentum with one of the Midwest’s most dynamic junior backs.