Image source: Rick Egan | The Salt Lake Tribune
Utah’s season isn’t over yet, but a major change is already in motion. Longtime head coach Kyle Whittingham is leaving the Utes to take over at Michigan, and that decision has quickly raised questions about his role in Utah’s upcoming Las Vegas Bowl against Nebraska.
According to ESPN’s Pete Thamel, Kyle Whittingham will not coach Utah in the bowl game. Instead, he is shifting his full attention to Michigan, where he is expected to immediately begin building relationships with players and their families. As Thamel reported, it is crucial for Michigan that Whittingham gets to Orlando as soon as possible to start his new job.
That news marks the end of an era in Salt Lake City. Kyle Whittingham spent 21 seasons leading the Utes and turned the program into a consistent winner. His résumé at Utah speaks for itself. He guided the team to a perfect 13-0 season in 2008, won three conference titles, and earned 11 bowl victories—tied for the most among active FBS coaches. Along the way, he was named National Coach of the Year three times.
With Kyle Whittingham stepping away, Utah will turn to a familiar face. Defensive coordinator Morgan Scalley will serve as interim head coach for the Las Vegas Bowl. Scalley has been a key part of the program for more than a decade and is widely respected inside the locker room.
Utah’s defense has long been its calling card under Scalley. Over the past 10 seasons, the Utes have finished in the top half of the Pac-12 in total defense nine times. The highlight came in 2019, when Utah’s defense ranked second nationally. Giving the 46-year-old the reins for the bowl game also allows players—especially those planning to return in 2026—to see his leadership style up close on game day.
Interestingly, Kyle Whittingham initially hoped to finish the season on the sidelines.
“This has been one of my favorite years,” Whittingham said earlier. “And having the chance to be around these guys one more month and go to battle one more time with them was something I wanted to do.”
Still, circumstances have shifted. Michigan is in the middle of a rebuild following coaching turmoil and NCAA issues. After winning a national championship in 2023, the Wolverines endured chaotic 2024 and 2025 seasons. Interim coach Biff Poggi even labeled the program a “malfunctioning organization.”
For now, Poggi is expected to coach Michigan in the Citrus Bowl against Texas on New Year’s Eve. However, insider Ross Dellenger reported that Whittingham will be in Orlando with the team, getting an early look at a roster still adjusting after Sherrone Moore’s firing.
One major concern is at quarterback. Bryce Underwood, the former five-star recruit from the 2025 class, started all 12 regular-season games and led Michigan to a 9-3 record with 2,229 passing yards. If Underwood transfers, Michigan could be left scrambling for a new starter. That scenario could open the door for Whittingham to bring Utah offensive coordinator Jason Beck and quarterback Devon Dampier, who followed Beck from New Mexico to Utah.
Recruiting has also felt the impact. Four-star wide receiver Brady Marchese requested his release following news of Whittingham’s hire, becoming the third Michigan signee to back out since Moore’s departure.
While Utah prepares for life after Kyle Whittingham, Michigan hopes his arrival brings stability, leadership, and a fresh start for a program searching for direction.
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