Michigan Eyes Experienced Coach to Turn Things Around

Michigan is making waves in the coaching world, and Kyle Whittingham is at the center of their search. Whittingham, who recently stepped down from his long-term role at Utah, is known for his steady hand and disciplined approach to coaching. At 66, he might not be the youngest choice, but his experience could be just what Michigan needs to stabilize their program.

A Program in Need of Stability

Michigan has had a rough patch lately. Their former coach, Sherrone Moore, was let go after some serious off-field issues, including inappropriate behavior and legal trouble. The program has also faced NCAA sanctions, making it a hot mess. Whittingham, on the other hand, has a reputation for keeping his teams in check and avoiding drama. His no-nonsense style could be a breath of fresh air for Michigan.

Whittingham's Impressive Track Record

Whittingham's time at Utah was impressive. He led the Utes to back-to-back Pac-12 titles and Rose Bowl appearances. Even though they had a down year in 2024, they bounced back strong in 2025. His ability to rebuild and maintain a winning culture is exactly what Michigan is looking for.

Challenges Ahead

But it won't be easy. Michigan has a talented roster, including top quarterback Bryce Underwood, but keeping everyone on board might be a challenge. Whittingham has already talked about the difficulties of managing a team in today's college football landscape, where players come and go through the transfer portal. Still, his experience could help him navigate these challenges.

A Fresh Start for Whittingham

Whittingham himself has said he's not done coaching. After stepping down at Utah, he made it clear he was open to new opportunities. Michigan represents a fresh start for him, with no ties to the previous coaching era. His defensive-minded approach aligns well with Michigan's recent style of play.

The Road Ahead

Michigan finished the season with a decent 9-3 record, but there's a lot of work to be done. The Citrus Bowl against Texas on Dec. 31 will be a good test for the team before they potentially welcome a new coach. If Whittingham takes the job, he'll have his work cut out for him, but he's proven he can handle tough situations.