Kyle Whittingham: Michigan’s New Football Coach and Urban Meyer Protégé

The University of Michigan has officially appointed Kyle Whittingham as its new head football coach. This decision follows the unexpected firing of Sherrone Moore on December 10 due to personal misconduct. Whittingham, a seasoned coach from Utah, will now lead the Wolverines, a program seeking consistency and direction.

Kyle Whittingham: A Proven Football Strategist

Kyle Whittingham hails from a football family. His father, Fred Whittingham, played professionally in the NFL during the 1960s and 1970s. Fred was a guard and linebacker for teams including the Los Angeles Rams, New Orleans Saints, and Dallas Cowboys. After his playing career, he turned to coaching in both college and the NFL.

Whittingham began his coaching career at Utah in 1994 under head coach Ron McBride. Initially serving as the defensive line coach, he later became the defensive coordinator. During his tenure, he brought his father back to the program as well.

Coach Under Urban Meyer

Whittingham has a strong coaching background spanning over three decades at Utah. Notably, he also coached alongside Urban Meyer for two seasons (2003-2004) before Meyer took the head coaching position at Florida. After Meyer’s departure, Whittingham succeeded him as head coach, a role he would maintain for 21 years.

Success at Utah

Throughout his time at Utah, Whittingham solidified his reputation as the winningest coach in the program’s history. He led the team to a remarkable 177-88 record. His coaching prowess resulted in:

• Seven consecutive winning seasons to start his tenure.
• A perfect 13-0 season in 2008, capped by a Sugar Bowl victory over Alabama.
• Two Pac-12 championships.
• Eight seasons with 10 or more wins.

Strong Record Against Michigan

Whittingham holds an impressive 3-0 record against Michigan. His notable victories include his first game against Michigan in 2008, which marked Rich Rodriguez’s debut, and the 2014 win during Brady Hoke’s final non-conference game as head coach.

A New Chapter in Michigan

After more than 30 years in Utah, Whittingham now embarks on a new adventure in Ann Arbor. His extensive experience and proven track record position him as a strong candidate to lead Michigan football into a new era.

As Michigan’s football program looks to stabilize, Whittingham’s physical style and leadership may provide the necessary foundation for future success.