Crain & Cone BREAKING: Michigan Hires Kyle Whittingham INSTANT REACTION
Dec 26, 2025
Michigan has just hired Kyle Whittingham as head coach, sparking immediate reactions and thoughtful debates among the hosts. They discuss his Hall of Fame credentials, the potential impact of hiring a 66-year-old, and how well he fits Michigan's culture. The conversation also dives into the complexities of NIL and roster management while pondering whether Whittingham can secure top talent like Bryce Underwood. Finally, they assess the implications of this hire on the rivalry with Ohio State and Michigan's broader future.
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Stability Over Sexiness
- Kyle Whittingham is seen as a stability hire who can immediately restore physical, hard-nosed football at Michigan.
- His age (66) matters less than his fit and potential short-term impact in modern college football.
Hiring Is About Fit, Not Hype
- The hosts argue there are no longer simple 'A+' or 'F' hires; context and fit matter more than headline glamour.
- A 66-year-old coach can still provide significant value even for a limited high-impact window.
Utah's Physical Identity Translates
- Whittingham's Utah teams brought Pac-12 physicality and a Big Ten/SEC style of play to their conference.
- That physical identity aligns naturally with Michigan's historical identity and recruiting base.