The Spartans’ top rival is reportedly nearing the hiring of its next head coach.
Pete Thamel of ESPN reported early on Friday morning that former Utah head coach Kyle Whittingham has “emerged as the focus” for the Michigan football coaching search. Per Thamel, Whittingham’s candidacy “is expected to be shared with top Michigan officials on Friday” with the potential of a deal to follow in the “near future.”
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Whittingham, 66, has been the head coach at Utah for the last 21 seasons, taking over for Urban Meyer after he left for Florida in 2004. During his time with the Utes, Whittingham posted a record of 177-88 — which was highlighted by a perfect 13-0 record in 2008. Utah finished this season 10-2 and was one of the top teams just outside of the College Football Playoff field.
Whittingham announced earlier this month that he would be stepping down as the Utah head coach after their bowl game, but it was made clear that he wasn’t retiring. Now, that seems very clear with reported interest in the Michigan head coaching job.
It’ll be interesting to see if Whittingham ends up being the new coach of the Wolverines or if there will be another twist in this search. There have been a number of rumored and reported candidates, but none to this point have been named the “focus” by Thamel and other national reporters. So it does seem like the Wolverines have found their guy to take over in Ann Arbor, Mich.
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This article originally appeared on Spartans Wire: MSU rival reportedly nearing decision, hiring of next head coach
