As Michigan continues its search for a new head coach following the firing of Sherrone Moore, several candidates are emerging as frontrunners for the pivotal position. With the coaching carousel in full swing, the Wolverines have been linked to prominent figures in college football, notably Kalen DeBoer from Alabama, Kenny Dillingham from Arizona State, and Clark Lea from Vanderbilt.
Fox Sports’ college football analyst Joel Klatt has identified DeBoer, Dillingham, and Lea as potential top candidates for Michigan’s coaching vacancy. Despite DeBoer’s recent commitment to Alabama, Klatt suggests the situation may not be as straightforward as it seems. “It seems cut and dry,” he remarked in his podcast, “The Joel Klatt Show,” adding a note of caution as to whether DeBoer will ultimately sign a contract extension at Alabama or consider Michigan’s offer.
While Michigan’s recruitment efforts are underway, the Wolverines face an immediate obstacle as DeBoer leads Alabama into a critical College Football Playoff matchup against Oklahoma. Should Alabama win, they would advance to the Rose Bowl, which complicates Michigan’s timeline, particularly with the transfer portal opening shortly thereafter.
Klatt also acknowledged the potential difficulties in hiring both Dillingham and Lea. Both coaches recently signed contract extensions with their respective institutions, adding another layer of complexity to Michigan’s pursuit. Dillingham has had notable success in his three seasons with Arizona State, with a record of 22-16 and a Big 12 Championship title earned in 2024. Meanwhile, Lea has made substantial strides with Vanderbilt, leading them to their first program history 10-win season, while accumulating a 26-35 record overall and gaining accolades as SEC Coach of the Year.
Adding to the intrigue, college football insider Bruce Feldman affirmed Michigan’s serious interest in Kalen DeBoer. He highlighted both DeBoer’s offensive acumen and Michigan’s struggles on that end of the field as significant factors in their interest. While DeBoer’s tenure at Alabama has included challenges, his success as a head coach ranks him among the elite in college football, boasting a storied career with a 123-19 record across multiple programs.
Feldman also brought attention to other names that might come into play if DeBoer decides to remain with Alabama. Jedd Fisch, a former Michigan assistant who has turned around Arizona, is also considered a strong candidate with his recent success leading the Wildcats to a nine-win season.
As the Wolverines navigate a crowded and complex coaching search, hope remains that they can secure a head coach capable of revitalizing the program and addressing its offensive challenges. The next few weeks promise to be crucial in determining the direction of Michigan football.