playnext.fm

Big Me Kickoff

What is Michigan really getting with Whittingham?

·50 min·4 clips
Kyle Whittingham's camp secretly signaled Michigan he was interested, setting up a coaching move that shocked college football.
The episode begins with host Kevin Noon introducing guest Alex Markham to discuss Michigan's new head coach Kyle Whittingham. Markham details how Whittingham's move from Utah to Michigan came together quickly, with his camp proactively reaching out to Michigan. He emphasizes Whittingham's clean 21-year record at Utah and his fit for a Michigan program needing stability after Jim Harbaugh and Sherrone Moore. Markham outlines Whittingham's coaching philosophy, centered on defense winning championships and a physical, strategic run game. They explore Whittingham's intense competitiveness, which led him to delay retirement after a losing season. The conversation shifts to the impact on Utah, where new head coach Morgan Scalley must manage staff and player retention. Markham speculates on potential coordinator hires like Jason Beck and Jay Hill, and whether Whittingham might bring Utah players to Michigan. He addresses recruiting challenges given Whittingham's age and West Coast background, but notes his respect and track record will attract talent. Markham highlights Whittingham's defining moments at Utah, including the 2021 Rose Bowl season marked by adversity. He predicts Michigan's biggest step forward will be restoring program respectability and building a top-five defense. The episode wraps with discussions on the Ohio State-Michigan rivalry, schedule challenges, and healthy competition.

As heard by us

A grounded Michigan staff-change review centered on Whittingham's defense, Jason Beck's fit, and transition questions.

Michigan's move to Kyle Whittingham gets framed around the practical questions that usually follow a coaching change: what his defensive identity brings, how it fits with Jason Beck, and what it means for people already in the building.

Read the full review in PlayNext →

Why you'd press play

You get a clear look at why Michigan's Kyle Whittingham conversation centers on defense, staff-building, and what his Utah identity could bring with him.

Read the full recommendation in PlayNext →
Listen to the show on
Apple PodcastsSpotify
Play clips from this episodeMore from Big Me Kickoff