Michigan’s coaching search has taken an unexpected turn as the Wolverines find themselves behind other programs in pursuing top candidates.
Kyle Whittingham emerged as a serious option for Michigan after stepping down from Utah following a 177-88 career record. The former Utes coach said he’s not retired and would “answer the phone if it rang from the right people.”
Michigan might be exactly those right people.
The Coaching Landscape Has Shifted
Most programs swung for the fences this cycle. LSU, Florida, Auburn and Penn State all targeted coaches like Marcus Freeman and Dan Lanning – coaches in good situations who shouldn’t consider leaving.
Michigan’s late entry into the process means most available candidates are gone.
The remaining names include Jedd Fisch at Washington, Kalen DeBoer at Alabama, Jeff Brohm at Louisville, and Cleveland Browns offensive coordinator Tommy Rees. All are solid options, but all would require buyouts and negotiations.
Why Whittingham Makes Sense
Michigan faces more than just finding a head coach. The program needs someone to rebuild culture, image and public perception after the departures of Jim Harbaugh and Sherrone Moore.
Whittingham brings decades of experience running a serious program. No gimmicks or tricks – just fundamentally sound football on both sides of the ball.
The 65-year-old coach would provide immediate stability. Michigan doesn’t need a coaching darling or hot coordinator. They need someone to clean up the current situation.
Michigan’s Reality Check
Despite analyst claims, Michigan isn’t the top destination it once was. The program generates significant revenue but lacks the pull to lure away elite coaches from better situations.
Harbaugh and Moore left behind challenges that require a different approach than chasing flashy hires.
Michigan has been competitive for six years. Whittingham offers the best chance to continue that trajectory while addressing underlying issues.
What Michigan Can Offer
The job presents Whittingham with opportunities he never had at Utah. Deeper pockets, better recruiting reach, and a chance to compete in the Big Ten could solidify his eventual Hall of Fame candidacy.
His defensive expertise would ensure Michigan remains stout on that side of the ball. His old-school approach fits what the program needs right now.
Whittingham might not be Mr. Right, but he could be Mr. Right Now. Michigan shouldn’t worry about social media reaction or headline appeal.
They need the best person to fix what’s broken. At this point in the process, no one seems better suited for that job than Whittingham.
