The Michigan Wolverines’ football program finds itself in the midst of a high-profile head coaching hunt following the abrupt dismissal of Sherrone Moore, a move that reverberated across the sport.
Moore’s departure stemmed from allegations of an inappropriate relationship with a staff member, prompting the university to act swiftly and name an interim replacement for the upcoming bowl game.
Potential successors have emerged quickly, with connections drawn to several prominent figures, including the head coach at Arizona State, Kenny Dillingham, Alabama’s Kalen DeBoer, and even a past Michigan defensive coordinator like Jesse Minter.
Although no official appointment has been made for the 35-year-old Dillingham, speculation has grown intense around his potential move to Ann Arbor, especially given his success in guiding the Sun Devils to the College Football Playoff in the previous season and pushing Texas close in a thrilling matchup—ironically, the same Longhorns set to face Michigan in the Citrus Bowl.
Recent developments have been notably subdued, with little public information surfacing about ongoing discussions.
According to Chris Karpman, a journalist covering Arizona State for SunDevilSource.com, uncertainty remains about any direct conversations between Dillingham and Michigan officials. He suggested that the Wolverines might secure the coach’s services if Arizona State fails to finalize an updated contract agreement in the near term.
ESPN’s Pete Thamel highlighted a significant advantage for Michigan in terms of institutional strength and financial resources when compared to Arizona State.
“I think that for Arizona State, that level, the difference between Arizona State and Michigan and Alabama, whatever, has always been pronounced, let’s not kid ourselves,” Thamel said.
“I don’t think it’s ever been more pronounced,” he added.
Thamel pointed to Dillingham’s impressive player development, noting how he transformed Sam Leavitt—a former backup quarterback from Michigan State—into a projected high NFL draft selection following his time under the coach at Arizona State.
Currently, Leavitt has entered the transfer portal, exploring opportunities with programs viewed as national title contenders, such as Miami, Indiana, Oregon, and LSU.
In Thamel’s view, this departure underscores broader challenges at Arizona State relative to elite programs like Michigan, potentially influencing decisions for both players and coaches alike.
