Newly named Michigan head coach Kyle Whittingham was appointed to the position on Friday, December 26. Whittingham joined the Wolverines in Florida, in part to watch preparation for the Citrus Bowl and, more importantly, to meet players one on one. During the game, the coach appeared on the in-game broadcast and was asked about his coaching staff. He said that they were waiting to talk to some coaches because they were involved in other Bowl games, and he said they would have answers soon.
It was at first strongly rumored that Kyle Whittingham had target Jason Beck, his offensive coordinator at Utah, for the same position at the University of Michigan. Beck would be the first coordinator officially named to Whittingham’s Michigan staff. Beck, who is widely considered one of the best offensive game callers, is also a very good quarterback development coach. Known for implementing schemes that rapidly improve offensive production while fitting around existing players. Beck’s offense is built on read-option and run-pass option. His offense is quarterback-friendly, as it gives the athlete the choice of run or pass. Beck also likes lining up players all over the field to create mismatches.
The other big hire to the Michigan coaching staff is defensive coordinator Jay Hill, who served in the same role at BYU. When he took over the defensive unit at BYU, that unit was in shambles. Hill turned that group into a top Big 12 defense. In both 2024 and 2025, BYU’s defense has been highly ranked in takeaways, red zone efficiency, scoring, and turnovers. Hill runs a base 3-4 defensive scheme focused on disruption and strong defensive line play, designed to pressure the quarterback. Hill demands that defensive players be tough and play physically. He is known as a hands on coach who works with his players in order to get the most and best out of them.
