Michigan HC search may have just taken a massive blow with top candidate potentially off the board to replace Sherrone Moore
The Michigan head coaching search may have just lost one of the top candidates on the board.
With the recent news of head coach Sherrone Moore’s termination by the Michigan Wolverines, the program has been put in a difficult spot. They have to deal with the aftermath of Moore’s controversial exit and must also find a replacement. This late in the process, and with everything going on behind the scenes, it will take a unique sell to land an outstanding option.
Perhaps the most interesting name on the early hot board for the coaching search is current Arizona State head coach Kenny Dillingham. Still just 35 years old, the former Oregon offensive coordinator has done a tremendous job rebuilding a struggling Sun Devil program over his three seasons. His name has surfaced for multiple job openings in recent weeks, a testament to his growing reputation.
While some considered Dillingham a favorite early in this process, it appears we might need to scratch his name off the board soon. 247 Sports reported that Arizona State is working diligently to reach an agreement on a contract amendment that is close to finalization.
Here is what Chris Karpman of Sun Devil Source wrote about the potential agreement with Dillingham:
“Kenny Dillingham and Arizona State are ‘close’ to reaching an agreement on contract amendments that would increase his annual base compensation, two people familiar with the negotiations told Sun Devil Source.
“Contract discussions have been ongoing between ASU’s athletic director, Graham Rossini, and Dillingham’s agent, Clint Dowdle, for about two weeks — since the conclusion of the team’s regular season. The conversations continued as widespread speculation on Friday contributed to Dillingham being listed as a strong favorite to become Michigan’s next head coach on multiple betting platforms.”
Where does Michigan go from here?
If Dillingham does finalize that agreement with Arizona State, it would be a tough early blow for this head coaching search. Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer is the other top name most have mentioned, but a lot would need to fall into place for that hire to happen. How the Crimson Tide competes in the College Football Playoff will be the key to what happens next with DeBoer and to whether the Wolverines have a chance in the end.
If Dillingham and DeBoer stay at their respective jobs, the most logical name probably becomes current Washington head coach Jedd Fisch. He is already familiar with the Michigan program, having coached there from 2015-16. Fisch is a respected offensive mind, which would also be a nice selling point to help the development of quarterback Bryce Underwood.
Like all coaching searches, the process is fluid. The next head coach may end up being someone nobody is even mentioning right now. The dominoes are falling, and it’s anyone’s best guess for where things go from here.
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