Fri Dec 26 12:50:00 UTC 2025: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

University of Michigan Eyes Utah’s Kyle Whittingham as Next Head Coach

ANN ARBOR, MI – The University of Michigan is reportedly considering Kyle Whittingham, the long-time head coach of the Utah Utes, as their next head football coach, ESPN reported Friday. Sources indicate that Whittingham’s candidacy is expected to be presented to top university officials, and a deal could materialize quickly should they approve.

Whittingham, 66, recently announced he would step down from the Utah program following 21 seasons, during which he amassed a 177-88 record, including an undefeated 2008 season. Whittingham has publicly stated he would not retire and made comments suggesting a move to another program. This hints at a potential head coaching job somewhere else. His departure follows the recent firing of Sherrone Moore after credible evidence emerged he had engaged in an inappropriate relationship with a staff member. After the firing, Moore was arrested and later charged with a third-degree felony for home invasion and two misdemeanors related to going to the staff member’s apartment.

Michigan is seeking to regain its on-field dominance after the firing of Moore, who had been in the role for less than a year. The Wolverines are looking to emulate the recent success they experienced under former coach Jim Harbaugh, which ended in a national championship.

Whittingham is renowned for building tough, physical teams with a focus on strong offensive and defensive lines. The Utes’ style of play has consistently been compared to that of Big Ten programs, a factor that could make him an appealing candidate for Michigan.

Other candidates, including Alabama’s Kalen DeBoer, were considered, but the timing became problematic due to Alabama’s playoff run and the looming NCAA transfer portal opening on January 2. Michigan is facing potential roster depletion as the transfer portal looms, with as many as 25 players possibly considering leaving the program. Interim coach Biff Poggi will lead the Wolverines into the Citrus Bowl on December 31 against Texas.

The potential hiring of Whittingham could provide much-needed stability for the Wolverines as they navigate the transfer portal and seek to rebuild for the future. University officials have not yet commented on the report.

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