Michigan now has a new face leading its football future. The change came fast. It also came during a difficult stretch for the program.
The Wolverines hired Kyle Whittingham as head coach this past Friday. Just weeks earlier, Michigan State made its own move by hiring Pat Fitzgerald on Dec. 1. That means both Big Ten programs in Michigan entered this season with new leadership almost back to back.
Despite the chaos, the reaction around Michigan has been positive. Interim coach Biff Poggi was quick to show his support.
Poggi said Michigan football is in great hands with Whittingham. He called him a proven winner. He described him as tough and respectful. He said the players will love him. He also praised athletic director Warde Manuel for the hire.
Poggi’s response makes sense given what he has been dealing with. He stepped in after Sherrone Moore was fired. The timing shook the program.
Poggi admitted the last few weeks have been hard. He said the players first felt shock. Then anger. Now many feel betrayed. He said the staff is trying to help them work through those emotions.
Poggi will still coach Michigan in the Cheez It Citrus Bowl. The Wolverines face Texas in Orlando. The game will kick off on New Year’s Eve at 3 p.m. ET.
But Poggi made it clear the result is not his top concern. His focus is on the players.
He said there is no real way to prepare for something like this. Everything has felt complicated. He said listening has been the most important part. Listening to the players. Listening to the parents. Emotions have been all over the place.
Poggi said the team has his full support no matter who plays. He wants football to be a safe space right now.
He said when the players are in meetings or practice, it becomes a break from the noise. A place where they do not have to think about headlines or questions.
For a few hours at least, the focus returns to football.
