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As the University of Michigan continues to deal with the fallout from Sherrone Moore’s firing, his replacement may have become a priority.
Kyle Whittingham, who announced he would step down as Utah’s head coach after 21 seasons following their Dec. 31 bowl game, has become “the focal point for Michigan’s coaching search,” according to ESPN.
Whittingham’s candidacy is expected to be shared with Michigan officials on Friday, and they could offer him a deal soon after.
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Utah Utes head coach Kyle Whittingham watches from the sidelines during the first half against the Baylor Bears at McLane Stadium in Waco, Texas on November 15, 2025. (Chris Jones/Imagn Images)
After leading Utah to a 10-2 record, Whittingham notched a career record of 177-88 during his two decades coaching the Utes. He even had a perfect 13-0 season in 2008, and many expect him to one day be inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in Atlanta, Georgia.
But when he announced he would resign, he joked during his statement that he was entering “the transfer portal” instead of just retiring from the sport.
The 66-year-old still wants to become a coach and is one of the hottest players in the market.
FIRED MICHIGAN COACH SHERRONE MOORE WAS ‘STRESSED’ AS RUMORS SURROUNDED ABOUT THE CASE: ‘IT WAS TOO OBVIOUS’
Moore was fired after Michigan discovered he was in an inappropriate relationship, and he was jailed shortly after for allegedly breaking into the employee’s home and threatening to kill himself.
Prosecutors accused Moore of contacting the staffer by phone and text after the breakup, prompting the woman to contact the University of Michigan and cooperate with its investigation. Moore was later fired from his job as head football coach, which prosecutors say prompted him to show up at her home.
Texas Tech Red Raiders head coach Joey McGuire talks with Utah Utes head coach Kyle Whittingham before the game at Rice-Eccles Stadium on September 20, 2025. (Rob Gray/Imagn Images)
Moore then allegedly “barged” into the residence, grabbed a butter knife and a pair of kitchen scissors and began threatening his own life. According to prosecutors, Moore told the staffer, “My blood is on your hands” and “You have ruined my life.”
If convicted, Moore faces more than half a decade behind bars, which would further damage his hopes of returning to the sidelines. His next court date is scheduled for January 22.
A not guilty plea was entered for Moore during his first court appearance earlier this month.
Moore was “stressed” during the 2025 season, according to the Detroit Free Press, with rumors he had an extramarital affair with a staff member.
Utah Utes head coach Kyle Whittingham reacts during the second half against the Kansas Jayhawks at David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium in Lawrence, Kansas on November 28, 2025. (Jay Biggerstaff/Imagn Images)
“The guys on that side of the building were 100 percent aware,” a former Michigan insider told the outlet. “They can deny it all they want, but too much happened. If you didn’t know, you’re an idiot. It was too obvious.”
Moore’s attorney, Ellen K. Michaels, told PK Press Club Digital that she had no comment regarding the article.
