It was not the kind of headline making week that the University of Michigan and it’s football program was looking for. Sharrone Moore was relieved of his coaching duties due to a relationship with a staff member. Moore was jailed because of bad choices made after he was let go by Michigan. The University’s Board of Regents started an immediate search for a new head coach in order to keep current players from hitting the transfer portal and newly signed incoming recruits from asking out of their commitments. In the past 48 hours, two names have come to the forefront of the search, Kalen DeBore (Alabama) and Kenny Dillingham (Arizona State.)
While there are a couple of other names in the mix, it appears DeBore, who wanted the Michigan job before they hired Sharrone Moore and Dillingham, has clearly separated themselves as being the top two candidates. In order to understand both Debore and Dillingham and the style of football they like, I have broken it down.
Kalen Debore his offensive philosophy is explosive, shotgun-based, with a focus on tempo and creativity. Using motion to create mismatches, mixing in some running game, and taking big shots downfield. On the defensive side of the ball, Debore likes to run a 4-2-5 base with an extra defensive back relying on zone coverage (Cover 3) which strong safety play is critical.
Kenny Dillingham, the offense he runs at Arizona State is up-tempo, pro-style with a steady amount of play-action, with the primary focus on player development. Culture through building relationships is Dillingham’s main focus. Defensively, the focus is on four man rushes with strong linebacker play. The Sun Devils run a complex defense that runs fast and plays aggressively.
Michigan insiders have reported that right now, Kenny Dillingham appears to be the number one target. While a lot can change, it does appear that at this moment, Dillingham very well could be the man. Dillingham is widely considered one of the best young (35 years old) football minds in today’s college football landscape.
Be it Debore or Dillingham, it appears that Michigan is going big with the next head football coach and going for a coach who has had success. The questions that must be asked is, as the Michigan football team is currently constructed, does it have the players that either coach prefers, or will there be a roster overhaul which would take time?
It is critical that Michigan get this hire right. There have been too many coaching issues for the University as of late and not only the football program. AD Warde Manuel has come under fire, and many are wondering if he will survive the latest coaching scandal. A complete Athletic Department overhaul is being floated around.
