As Michigan reportedly prepares to welcome Kyle Whittingham as its next head coach, another name is quickly gaining traction in Ann Arbor: BYU defensive coordinator Jay Hill. According to sources, Hill is expected to be a strong candidate for Michigan’s defensive coordinator position - and it’s not hard to see why.
Hill has deep ties to Whittingham, and that connection could help shape Michigan’s next chapter on the defensive side of the ball. But this isn’t just about familiarity - it’s about results.
Since arriving at BYU in 2023, Hill has completely reshaped the Cougars’ defense, turning it into one of the most reliable and physical units in the Big 12. Under his leadership, BYU held opponents to just 19 points per game, good for 21st nationally in scoring defense.
That’s not just solid - that’s elite territory, especially in a conference known for its offensive fireworks.
What makes Hill’s work stand out is the identity he’s instilled. His defenses don’t just play hard - they play smart, fast, and with a level of discipline that wears opponents down over four quarters.
BYU became a team you couldn’t take lightly, largely because of how tough it was to move the ball against them. Week in and week out, the Cougars brought a brand of football that was physical at the point of attack and sound in execution - the kind of DNA that travels well to the Big Ten.
If Hill does make the move to Michigan, he brings more than just a strong résumé. He brings Power Five experience, a proven ability to build defensive culture, and a reputation for fielding units that don’t just defend - they dictate. For a Michigan program that has built its recent success on elite defense, Hill would be a natural fit to help sustain that standard.
Of course, his departure would be a tough blow for BYU. The Cougars are on the verge of a milestone season, chasing their first 12-win campaign since 2001 as they prepare to face Georgia Tech in the Pop-Tarts Bowl on Saturday. But that’s the cost of success - when you build something special, other programs take notice.
If Michigan locks in Hill, it’s not just a staff hire. It’s a statement that the Wolverines intend to keep their defensive identity sharp, aggressive, and championship-ready.