Kyle Whittingham hasn’t wasted any time embracing the Michigan-Ohio State rivalry-and he’s already throwing a little fuel on the fire.
Introduced as Michigan’s new head coach following the dismissal of Sherrone Moore, Whittingham stepped to the podium and delivered exactly the kind of moment that gets fans talking. When asked-half-jokingly-whether he dislikes Ohio State now that he’s in Ann Arbor, Whittingham didn’t hesitate.
“I do now!” he said with a grin.
It was a light jab, more playful than pointed, but make no mistake: Whittingham understands what this rivalry means. And even if it was said with a smile, it’s the kind of line that will echo all the way to Columbus.
Whittingham also mentioned he's close with Urban Meyer, which adds a bit of intrigue to the mix. Meyer, of course, is a Buckeye legend. But Whittingham’s allegiance now lies firmly in maize and blue, and he’s making it clear he’s ready to go to battle-even if it means poking at the reigning national champs.
For now, though, Ohio State has bigger things to worry about than a new Michigan coach cracking jokes. The Buckeyes are locked in on their College Football Playoff quarterfinal matchup against Miami, and they’re coming in with something to prove. After a surprising loss to Indiana in the Big Ten Championship Game, there’s a chip on this team’s shoulder-and they’re not hiding it.
Ryan Day’s squad is expected to handle business against the Hurricanes, and they’ve got the firepower to do it. Quarterback Julian Sayin and standout wideout Jeremiah Smith headline an offense that can light it up when it’s clicking. They’re not just trying to win-they’re trying to make a statement.
Meanwhile, Michigan’s season wraps up with a Citrus Bowl appearance, and Whittingham is using the time to build out his staff and lay the foundation for 2026. That’s when things get real.
Because next November, it’s back to The Game. And this time, Whittingham will be leading the Wolverines into the Horseshoe. He’ll be walking into one of the most hostile environments in college football, with the full weight of the rivalry on his shoulders-and, by his own admission, a healthy dislike for the Buckeyes.
Ohio State, of course, will be more than ready. They’ll remember the comment.
They’ll remember the rivalry. And they’ll be looking to make Whittingham’s first taste of The Game one to forget.
But before any of that, the Buckeyes have their eyes on a national title. And if they play like a team still stinging from that Big Ten title game loss, Miami could be in for a long night.