Michigan is actively searching for a new head coach after firing Sherrone Moore, who led his final game on Nov. 29 against Ohio State before a crowd exceeding 100,000
The Wolverines parted ways with Moore shortly before their Citrus Bowl game against Texas on Dec. 21. Meanwhile, potential candidates have continued to surface as the program looks to name his replacement.
Analyst Claims Retired Coach Ready to Return for Michigan Opportunity
Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer and Arizona State’s Kenny Dillingham have been predicted as two of the top names linked to Michigan’s head coaching opening. DeBoer has already shut down speculation, saying he fully expects to remain in Tuscaloosa through the 2026 season.
Dillingham’s situation is less clear, as Sun Devil Source’s Chris Karpman reported Tuesday that Michigan continues to show interest in the Arizona State coach. Dillingham’s own comments to reporters following the Sun Devils’ Sun Bowl practice that day also suggested he has not completely closed the door on potential interest from Ann Arbor.
With uncertainty surrounding both DeBoer and Dillingham, Barstool Sports’ Liam Blutman has continued to connect recently retired Utah head coach Kyle Whittingham to Michigan’s search.
“Have to imagine he’d only have a chance if DeBoer/Dillingham pass up on Michigan, but man… Whittingham’s interest in this job is no joke. From what I’m told, it’s a serious desire,” Blutman tweeted.
Whittingham last signed a contract extension with Utah in 2022, agreeing to a six-year deal worth $41 million in guaranteed base pay. His final season salary this year was approximately $6.9 million. Following his retirement, he is set to take on a two-year role as a special assistant at Utah, earning $3.45 million annually.
Over more than two decades as a head coach, Whittingham compiled an impressive 177-88 career record, finishing with winning marks in 18 of his 21 seasons. He was named National Coach of the Year in 2008 after guiding Utah to a perfect 13-0 season.
Whittingham announced his retirement after leading the Utes to a 10-2 record this season, marking their third 10-win campaign since 2020. He is scheduled to coach his final game in the Las Vegas Bowl on Dec. 31.
Despite the retirement announcement, some believe Whittingham’s experience and coaching approach would align well with Michigan’s needs. The Athletic’s Stewart Mandel also reported, citing a source close to Whittingham, that the coach may not be done coaching and could explore other opportunities.
Michigan ended the regular season with a 9-3 record and finished ranked No. 19 in PFSN’s College Football Playoff rankings.
