Read on foxsports.comMichigan Wolverines Hire Kyle Whittingham as New Head Coach
The University of Michigan has officially named Kyle Whittingham as its next head football coach, replacing the dismissed Sherrone Moore. Whittingham, the legendary former Utah Utes coach, has signed a five-year deal reportedly worth an average of $8.2 million annually. The 66-year-old coach brings a proven track record of success, including multiple conference championships and a 177-88 career record, to Ann Arbor as he takes over one of college football's most storied programs during a period of transition.
The University of Michigan football program has turned to a seasoned veteran to lead it into a new era. Following the abrupt dismissal of Sherrone Moore, the Wolverines have secured Kyle Whittingham, the longtime and highly successful head coach of the Utah Utes, as their new leader. The hiring, confirmed by Michigan athletic director Warde Manuel, marks a significant shift for a program seeking stability and a return to its championship principles.
A Proven Leader Takes the Helm
Warde Manuel's statement, as reported by FOX Sports, emphasized the qualities that made Whittingham the top candidate. Manuel described him as "a well-respected and highly successful head coach who is widely recognized as a leader of exceptional character and principled leadership." The search prioritized vision, resilience, and the ability to build sustained success—traits Whittingham demonstrated over nearly two decades at Utah. His contract is a five-year deal with 75% guaranteed, averaging $8.2 million per year, with a salary of $8 million expected for the 2026 season.
Whittingham's Legacy at Utah
Kyle Whittingham leaves Utah as its all-time winningest coach, with a career record of 177-88. His tenure was defined by remarkable consistency and program-building. He led the Utes to a Mountain West Conference championship in 2008, back-to-back Pac-12 championships in 2021 and 2022, and four Pac-12 division titles. Under his guidance, Utah compiled an 11-6 record in bowl games, showcasing an ability to prepare teams for major postseason contests. Whittingham announced his planned departure from Utah earlier in December, humorously referring to it as entering the "transfer portal," setting the stage for this move to a traditional powerhouse.
Context of the Michigan Opening
Whittingham's hiring comes after a turbulent period for Michigan. Previous coach Sherrone Moore was fired for cause on December 10th following a university investigation that found credible evidence of an inappropriate relationship with a staff member, a violation of university policy. Moore's tenure was also marred by NCAA issues related to an advanced scouting scandal, for which he had been suspended. This created an urgent need for a coach with a unimpeachable reputation for discipline and integrity, which Whittingham possesses in abundance.
The Path Forward in Ann Arbor
Analysts believe Whittingham's style is a perfect fit for Michigan's needs. FOX Sports analyst Robert Griffin III noted on social media that Whittingham "runs a disciplined program with an edge to it" and is a "defense first coach who will play complimentary football." His ability to build Utah into a consistent winner despite fewer resources than elite programs suggests he is well-equipped to manage the expectations and resources at Michigan. His immediate focus will shift to the Citrus Bowl, where Michigan is slated to play Texas, and then to recruiting and stabilizing the program for the 2026 season.
The transition has been coordinated between the schools. Utah athletic director Mark Harlan stated the university granted Whittingham's request to join Michigan immediately, while Utah prepares for its Las Vegas Bowl under promoted defensive coordinator Morgan Scalley. For Michigan, the hiring of Kyle Whittingham represents a decisive move to restore a culture of toughness, physicality, and respect, aiming to quickly return the Wolverines to the forefront of college football.
