Michigan Hires Kyle Whittingham: Herbstreit Calls It a ‘Fantastic Hire’ to Rebuild Wolverines Brand

The University of Michigan has hired Kyle Whittingham as its new head football coach. The school finalized a five-year deal with the former Utah Utes coach on Friday. His annual salary is set at $8.2 million, according to reports.

Whittingham steps in to lead a program seeking stability after a turbulent period. He replaces Sherrone Moore, who was dismissed earlier this month. The veteran coach brings 177 career wins and a reputation for disciplined leadership to Ann Arbor.

Analyst Praise for a Program in Transition

The hiring drew immediate reaction from prominent voices in college football. ESPN analyst Kirk Herbstreit publicly endorsed the move on social media. He called it a “fantastic hire” for the historic program.

Herbstreit stated Whittingham was the perfect choice to “reestablish the Michigan brand.” This directly addresses the athletic department’s core challenge. The program has faced significant scrutiny and instability in recent seasons.

Whittingham’s resume is defined by remarkable consistency. He spent 32 consecutive seasons at Utah, with 21 years as head coach. He led the Utes through a successful conference transition and won 11 bowl games.

His defensive expertise and no-nonsense approach are seen as ideal for Michigan’s current needs. The Wolverines navigate the fallout from the Connor Stalions advanced scouting scandal. They also deal with the abrupt end of Sherrone Moore’s brief tenure.

A Veteran Hand for a New Big Ten Era

The move signals Michigan’s desire for a proven, steady leader. Whittingham initially stepped down at Utah on December 12 but clarified he was not retiring. This allowed defensive coordinator Morgan Scalley to take over the Utes program.

Michigan’s search reportedly considered other candidates before focusing on Whittingham. His experience navigating conference realignment at Utah is highly valued. Michigan enters a new-look Big Ten alongside powerhouse programs like Ohio State and Oregon.

The immediate plan is for Whittingham to meet the team in Orlando. Michigan is scheduled to play the Texas Longhorns in the Citrus Bowl on December 31. His long-term task is to restore national credibility and competitive consistency.

The hiring of Kyle Whittingham marks a deliberate turn toward experience for Michigan football. His track record offers a clear path to stabilizing the Wolverines brand. The college football world will watch closely as this new chapter begins.

Info at your fingertips

Who is Kyle Whittingham?

Kyle Whittingham is the former long-time head coach of the Utah Utes football program. He spent 21 seasons as their head coach, compiling 177 wins. He is known for his defensive mind and program stability.

Why did Michigan need a new coach?

Michigan dismissed head coach Sherrone Moore on December 10. This followed an internal investigation by the university. The program has sought a leader to restore stability after recent scandals.

What did Kirk Herbstreit say about the hire?

ESPN analyst Kirk Herbstreit called it a “fantastic hire” on social media. He said Michigan “couldn’t have hand-picked a better coach to reestablish the Michigan brand.” His endorsement highlights the national perception of the move.

How much is Whittingham’s Michigan contract?

Kyle Whittingham’s contract with Michigan is a five-year agreement. It is reportedly worth $8.2 million per year. The deal makes him one of the highest-paid coaches in the Big Ten conference.

What is Whittingham’s biggest coaching achievement?

A major achievement was leading Utah to an undefeated 13-0 season in 2008. That year, he won the Paul “Bear” Bryant Award as national coach of the year. He also successfully transitioned Utah from the Mountain West to the Pac-12.

When will Whittingham coach his first game?

Whittingham’s first game as Michigan’s head coach will be in the 2026 season. The team’s 2025 season concludes with the Citrus Bowl on December 31. He is expected to oversee the program’s transition immediately.