After a week of hearing how Michigan football's search for a head coach was going well, the Wolverines find themselves up the creek without a paddle.
Kalen DeBoer effectively took himself out of the running, as Alabama defeated Oklahoma in the first round of the College Football Playoff. Frankly, the idea of hiring away DeBoer always felt like wishful thinking. Then, on Saturday morning, it was reported by Pete Thamel that Dillingham had agreed to an extension with Arizona State, taking him out of the running, too.
Sources: Kenny Dillingham has signed a new contract at Arizona State, which will average $7.5 million over the course of the deal. The staff salary pool is up to $11 million, which puts it near the top of the Big 12. pic.twitter.com/Z94dFG9thG
— Pete Thamel (@PeteThamel) December 20, 2025
DeBoer was probably never going to leave Alabama, just like Kenny Dillingham was probably never going to leave Arizona State, although the fact that he chose to stick with the Sun Devils over the Wolverines stings, because it might mean Bryce Underwood is heading out the door.
What's next for Michigan football?
Two candidates would have ensured that Underwood came back. They are each off the board now. What's worse is that there isn't a clear third option. That was supposed to be Jedd Fisch, but he was ruled out as a candidate earlier this week.
Who is stil on the board for Michigan football?
The list of candidates includes Kyle Whittingham, the Utah head coach who has stepped down to pursue other opportunities. Yet, he's 66 years old. Jeff Brohm, the Louisville head coach, is another, but he turned down Penn State, and you wonder if, like Dillingham, he wants to stay at his alma mater.
Clark Lea of Vanderbilt is another candidate. Eli Drinkwitz and Jesse Minter have been mentioned. Biff Poggi, the interim head coach, was also granted an interview.
Essentially, it's back to square one. Michigan football wanted a head coach in place byJanuary 2nd. Now, that might not happen.
Michigan needs to act quickly, but without a clear option to turn to, the next few days will be critical for the Wolverines.