After a much-publicized firing of its football coach and ensuing search for his replacement, Michigan seems to have found who next to lead its program.
The Wolverines are finalizing a deal to bring longtime Utah football coach Kyle Whittingham to Ann Arbor to replace Sherrone Moore, who was fired on Dec. 10 and subsequently charged with home invasion, stalking, and breaking and entering on Dec. 12 — the same day Whittingham abruptly announced he was stepping down from Utah after 21 seasons leading the program.
The timing works well for Michigan, not only in the fact a well-established coach became available to lead the program following Moore’s firing, but also in that the Wolverines can minimize the damage that may be done via the transfer portal.
NCAA rules allow players of teams to enter their names into the transfer portal five days after a new coach is hired. If Michigan were to officially announce the hiring on Friday, Dec. 26, Michigan players could enter their names into the portal on Dec. 31 — only two days before the 15-day portal opens for the rest of the country on Jan. 2.
Early reports indicate that Whittingham may also be in Orlando for Michigan’s Citrus Bowl matchup vs. Texas, which kicks off a half-hour before Utah and Nebraska face off in the Las Vegas Bowl. It is unclear whether Whittingham will finish the season with the Utes or, potentially, get a head start getting to know his new team.
Here is how social media is reacting to the news Michigan is finalizing a deal to hire Whittingham:
Kyle Whittingham to Michigan: Social media reacts
This process for Michigan fans has felt like years. Now we got a coach, a proven winner, with incredible character.
Best thing we can do as a fan base is support this new coach to the ends of the earth.
Lotta kids are gonna hit the portal, but when the dust settles it will be… pic.twitter.com/i1jlO0VDDW
— Taylor Lewan (@TaylorLewan77) December 26, 2025
Michigan should be heavily concerned about Kyle Whittingham being (*checks notes*) 18 months older than the best coach in college football.
— Connor Stalions (@cpstalions) December 26, 2025
Michigan is about to be an offensive juggernaut https://t.co/rxJQ28q8SX
— Trevor Woods (@WoodsFootball) December 26, 2025
Not sure there’s a more perfect fit. For years Utah has been the west coast version of Michigan.
Phenomenal defense.
Sound running game.
NFL defensive backs.
Lackluster QB play.
Tough, but limited athletically.Whittingham would come in and Michigan wouldn’t miss a beat. https://t.co/FxnJ3ZIwZV
— Emmanuel Acho (@EmmanuelAcho) December 26, 2025
What I love about the Wittingham hire:
– he’s a great coach. Period. That’s most important.
– the timing. It’s early enough where he can meet with the players, the recruits, their families, and keep the young talent together. This has always been extremely important
– the…— Jake Butt (@Jbooty88) December 26, 2025
Kyle Whittingham is exactly what Michigan needs as a program right now.
Runs a disciplined program with an edge to it.
Is a defense first coach who will play complimentary football.
Eager to prove he isn’t done winning.Sounds like what Michigan itself needs. pic.twitter.com/igcW6WfXxI
— Robert Griffin III (@RGIII) December 26, 2025
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Kyle Whittingham, Michigan finalizing deal: Social media reacts
