In a dramatic shift, the University of Michigan announced on Friday that former Utah head coach Kyle Whittingham will take the reins of its football program, following the abrupt dismissal and arrest of coach Sherrone Moore.
Whittingham’s Appointment
Whittingham, 66, signed a five-year contract that will carry him through the 2030 season. Athletics Director Warde Manuel said that throughout the search, Whittingham “consistently demonstrated the qualities we value at Michigan: vision, resilience, and the ability to build and sustain championship-caliber teams.”
A Culture of Toughness
In a written statement, Manuel added that Whittingham “brings not only a proven track record of success, but also a commitment to creating a program rooted in toughness, physicality, discipline and respect – where student-athletes and coaches represent the university with distinction both on and off the field.”
Whittingham’s Own Transition
Whittingham announced two weeks earlier that he was stepping down as Utah’s winningest coach, though he did not rule out coaching again. Reports indicated that he left after more than two decades to allow defensive coordinator Morgan Scalley, hired in July 2024 as the “head coach in waiting,” to take the helm.
The Coach’s Own Words
In his own statement, Whittingham said, “My family and I are thrilled to join the University of Michigan community, and we look forward to helping our players grow, develop, and reach their highest potential – on the gridiron, in the classroom, and as leaders. It’s a privilege to be part of something that inspires pride in every Wolverine fan.”
The Moore Scandal
Michigan terminated coach Sherrone Moore on December 10, citing cause. A university investigation found credible evidence that Moore engaged in an inappropriate relationship with a staff member, a clear violation of university policy. Prosecutors said Moore confronted the female staffer and threatened self-harm, telling her “my blood is on your hands” and that she had “ruined my life.”
Criminal Charges
Moore, 39, was charged with home invasion, stalking and breaking and entering. During his two seasons as head coach, he compiled a 17-8 record.
Other Infractions
On November 20, 2023, Michigan suspended football analytics assistant Connor Stalions after discovering that he had allegedly videotaped opponents’ sidelines so the Wolverines could decode signals.
National Title and Sign-Stealing
Michigan won the national championship on January 8, 2024, defeating Washington 34-13 at NRG Stadium in Houston. The win, however, has been tempered by a sign-stealing scandal that has diminished some of the ring’s luster.
NFL Move
Two weeks after Michigan’s championship, the Los Angeles Chargers hired Michigan coach Jim Harbaugh.
Additional Allegations
Former assistant football coach Matthew Weiss was indicted on March 30 for breaking into the digital accounts of 3,300 students to download intimate photos and videos, according to federal prosecutors.
Whittingham’s Utah Legacy
At Utah, Whittingham posted a 177-88 record (.668) and achieved three 10-win seasons in the past five campaigns. His deputies include 14-year cornerbacks coach Sharrieff Shah, whose players were instrumental in Utah’s strong pass defense this season.
University Endorsement
Michigan President Domenico Grasso described Whittingham as “exactly the right fit for the University of Michigan at this time.”
Potential Assistant Moves
It is not yet clear whether Whittingham will bring any of his Utah assistants to Ann Arbor, a common practice when head coaches switch jobs in college football.
Personal Connections
Sharrieff Shah is married to former “Real Housewives of Salt Lake City” star Jen Shah.
Upcoming Bowl Games
The No. 15 Utes are scheduled to play Nebraska on Wednesday in the Las Vegas Bowl. Michigan will face No. 13 Texas that same day in the Citrus Bowl.
Key Takeaways
- Michigan has hired Kyle Whittingham, a 66-year-old Utah coach, on a five-year contract through 2030.
- The hiring follows the termination of Sherrone Moore amid a scandal involving an inappropriate relationship and criminal charges.
- Whittingham’s Utah record is 177-88, and he is expected to bring a culture of toughness and discipline to Michigan.
Michigan’s decision signals a new direction for a program that has endured multiple controversies, aiming to restore its reputation and competitive standing on the national stage.
