Michigan’s Sudden Coaching Vacancy Sends Shockwaves Through College Football - Here’s Where the Search Stands
In a stunning turn of events, one of college football’s premier programs finds itself without a head coach just weeks before the new year. The Michigan Wolverines - fresh off a national championship in 2023 and long regarded as a cornerstone of the Big Ten - are now scrambling to fill a vacancy that opened under highly unusual and troubling circumstances.
Sherrone Moore, who stepped in after Jim Harbaugh’s departure, has been fired for cause following allegations of an inappropriate relationship with a staff member. That situation escalated further when Moore was arrested on Dec. 10 in connection with an alleged assault. With the coaching carousel already winding down, the timing couldn’t be more complicated for Michigan.
Still, this is Michigan - a blue-blood program with deep pockets, a rich history, and a roster built to contend. The job will draw attention, even in mid-December. And while the timing is far from ideal, the Wolverines are wasting no time exploring their options.
Let’s break down where things stand in the Wolverines’ coaching search - who’s in the mix, who’s out, and what could happen next.
Kalen DeBoer: The Big Swing
If there’s a top target for Michigan right now, it’s Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer. According to ESPN’s Pete Thamel, Michigan officials are “convicted” in their pursuit of DeBoer - a term that speaks volumes about their level of interest.
But here’s the catch: DeBoer has made it clear he’s committed to Alabama. He publicly stated he hasn’t spoken with any other schools and feels “completely supported” in Tuscaloosa. He even released a statement reinforcing that stance.
The timing of Alabama’s College Football Playoff run adds another wrinkle. Before their matchup with Oklahoma, there was speculation that a first-round loss might’ve opened the door for Michigan to make a serious move. That didn’t happen - Alabama beat the Sooners 34-24 and advanced to the quarterfinals, keeping DeBoer firmly in the postseason spotlight.
So while DeBoer remains the dream hire, prying him away from Alabama - especially mid-playoff run - is a tall order. Michigan may be interested, but the logistics are brutal.
Backup Plans: Drinkwitz, Fisch, and (Previously) Dillingham
Michigan isn’t putting all its eggs in the DeBoer basket. According to Thamel, the Wolverines have already started exploratory conversations with several other coaches, including Missouri’s Eli Drinkwitz and Washington’s Jedd Fisch.
Both coaches have their teams preparing for post-Christmas bowl games, which complicates the timing but doesn’t eliminate them from contention. Drinkwitz has steadily rebuilt Missouri into a competitive SEC program, while Fisch has guided Washington through a transitional period with a steady hand.
Arizona State’s Kenny Dillingham was also part of the early conversation. But as of Dec. 20, he’s off the board - ASU locked him down with a new extension reportedly worth $7.5 million annually. That move effectively removes him from Michigan’s radar.
A Veteran Wild Card: Kyle Whittingham
One name that’s flown a bit under the radar but could gain traction is Kyle Whittingham, the longtime Utah head coach. Whittingham is set to coach his final game with the Utes in the Las Vegas Bowl, but he’s made it clear he’s not ready to retire. In his own words, he considers himself “in the transfer portal” - a nod to his openness to new opportunities.
According to the Detroit Free Press, Whittingham has expressed interest in the Michigan job. He brings a wealth of experience, a reputation for building tough, disciplined teams, and a track record of winning in a Power Five conference. If Michigan wants a steady hand to guide the program through this sudden transition, Whittingham’s name makes a lot of sense.
NFL Option: Tommy Rees Getting a Look
Another intriguing possibility? Tommy Rees, currently the offensive coordinator for the Cleveland Browns.
Rees has a strong college pedigree, having previously served as OC at both Notre Dame and Alabama. According to Cleveland.com, Michigan has shown interest in bringing him back to the college ranks as their next head coach.
Rees is young, innovative, and has experience working with elite talent. While he doesn’t have head coaching experience, his time under Nick Saban and now in the NFL could appeal to Michigan as they look to maintain their high standards on both sides of the ball.
What’s Next for Michigan?
This is one of the most high-profile job openings in college football - but also one of the most complicated. The Wolverines are trying to make a major hire at a time when most programs have already settled their coaching staffs and bowl season is in full swing.
Still, Michigan has the brand power, the resources, and the urgency to make something happen. Whether that means convincing a sitting Power Five coach to make a late jump, luring a veteran like Whittingham out west, or taking a swing on a young offensive mind like Rees, the Wolverines are clearly exploring every angle.
The pressure is on. The clock is ticking. And Michigan - a program that’s been at the top of the mountain - doesn’t plan on staying in limbo for long.