Michigan hires Utah's Kyle Whittingham on five-year, $41 million deal amid early-season struggles

Kyle Whittingham took over the Michigan Wolverines after a late-season hiring, replacing Sherrone Moore, who was dismissed following an investigation. The former Utah head coach signed a five-year, $41 million contract, with a buyout set at 75 percent, or roughly $24.75 million, according to the terms disclosed.

Michigan opened the season with a narrow win over Western Michigan and a victory against Oklahoma, but fell 15-6 at home to rival Michigan State on Saturday. The loss marked the team’s first defeat to an in-state opponent this year and sparked renewed scrutiny of Whittingham’s performance.

While the Wolverines’ defense has remained solid, the offense has struggled regardless of the quarterback under center, prompting concerns among fans about the program’s direction. The contract’s structure allows the university to terminate the agreement after a single season for the stipulated buyout amount.

University of Michigan athletic director Warde Manuel is slated to step down in 2027, meaning Whittingham may face a new administration without the current leadership’s backing. The school must now decide whether to retain Whittingham and seek a new quarterback through the transfer portal, or to consider paying the buyout to pursue a different coaching option.

"We expect a culture of winning and stability," a university spokesperson said, emphasizing the goal of establishing a foundation for future success.