The University of Michigan has brought in Kyle Whittingham to address the issues plaguing its football program after yet another scandal. He’s already kicking off his efforts as the new head coach.
During his introduction on Sunday, Whittingham, age 66, referred to Michigan as a “special place.” He’s set to lead the Wolverines against Texas in the Cheez-It Bowl on Wednesday.
Just two weeks ago, he stepped down from his position as head coach at Utah after more than two decades.
While he didn’t clearly state that he was retiring at that time, discussions with Michigan State started soon after the firing of Sherone Moore, who was found to have had an inappropriate relationship with an employee during a university investigation.
Moore now faces three criminal charges, including a felony for allegedly confronting his former coworkers at his home post-firing.
Subsequently, interim head coach Biff Poggi referred to Michigan as a “dysfunctional organization,” prompting athletic director Warde Manuel to announce an investigation into the entire athletic department.
Whittingham aims to right the ship and believes this role presents a “legitimate opportunity to win a national championship.” He sees it as his final chance.
After signing a five-year contract, Whittingham expressed that he felt “no hesitation” in accepting the position, despite the chaos surrounding it. He acknowledged he had a general understanding of the troubles within the football program.
Whittingham shared his confidence in running a clean program, citing that Utah faced no NCAA sanctions during his leadership, which included an impressive record of 177-88 and eight seasons with 10 wins or more since 2008.
He stepped down after guiding Utah to a solid 10-2 record this season.
Click here for the latest on former University of Michigan coach Sherone Moore
“They treated me well. It was my decision to resign,” Whittingham stated. “I felt it was time. I saw too many coaches trying too hard for too long. I actually thought about resigning before last season, but I felt I couldn’t walk away after such a frustrating year. So I came back to try to set things right.”
Whittingham admitted the transition to Michigan took him by surprise, but he described the outcome as “phenomenal.”
“I made a mistake at Utah State. When they started probing about retirement, I inadvertently answered,” he explained.
Now, his focus shifts to Michigan, and one of his immediate priorities is to keep freshman quarterback Bryce Underwood. Reports indicate he had a 45-minute meeting with Underwood.
“You need that ‘it’ factor in a quarterback, and he has that,” Whittingham emphasized. “The offense we’re introducing should suit him perfectly. I truly believe he’s going to shine and gain valuable experience here.”
