Michigan looks to hire former Utah Coach Kyle Whittingham

Michigan football is closing in on its next head coach, and former Utah coach Kyle Whittingham is at the top of the list, sources say. The 66-year-old legendary coach stepped down from Utah earlier this month after 21 seasons, leaving behind a 177-88 record and a reputation for building tough, winning teams.

Whittingham’s best season came in 2008, when Utah went 13-0, beat Alabama in the Sugar Bowl, and finished No2 in the AP poll. He is widely expected to be inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame. Despite stepping down, Whittingham has made it clear he isn’t retiring, joking that he’s entering the “transfer portal,” hinting at another head coaching job.

Michigan fired Sherrone Moore on Dec 10 after evidence emerged that he had an inappropriate relationship with a staff member. Moore was later arrested and charged with a felony and misdemeanours. The Wolverines are looking for a coach who can restore stability to the program and bring back the success Michigan saw at the end of the Jim Harbaugh era, which included the undefeated national championship season in 2023.

Whittingham is known for his physical, disciplined style and could help Michigan keep its roster intact before the NCAA transfer portal opens on Jan. 2. Utah finishes its season with a bowl game against Nebraska on December 31, just a day after Michigan plays in the Citrus Bowl.

Other coaches, including Alabama’s Kalen DeBoer, were considered, but Whittingham’s experience and track record make him the clear favourite for the Wolverines.