Michigan waited for the result of Alabama and Oklahoma in the College Football Playoff to see if Kalen DeBoer would be free to pursue.
For much of the first half, things looked good. Oklahoma jumped out to a 17-0 lead. Then, DeBoer showed why Michigan football wanted him in the first place.
By halftime, the score was tied. Alabama scored 34 of the next 41 points, notching the second College Football Playoff win of DeBoer's career, which effectively takes him out of the running to be the Michigan football head coach.
The Wolverines could try to wait. There is an argument for waiting out the best candidate, but truth be told, that always felt like Dillingham, at least from my point of view.
DeBoer is an elite coach. He's one of the best in college football, but head coaches don't leave Alabama. Now, Michigan can't afford to wait, in order to make an offer he can't refuse.
The time is now to close on Dillingham. Michigan needs to get an offer on the table, and the Wolverines need to get him signed to be the next head coach as soon as possible. After that, the options get kind of bleak.
Kyle Whittingham is appealing. So is Jeff Brohm and Clark Lea. They all have warts, though. That's not to say Dillingham is the perfect candidate. But, he's a great leader, a QB guru, a winner, and someone who reminds you a little of Jim Harbaugh/Dusty May.
The head coaching search has been on pause. With Oklahoma's loss to Alabama, it's time to press play and go get Kenny Dillngham.