We met with Michigan HC Kyle Whittingham ahead of the first spring practice. Here's everything he had to say:
▪️ Says he’s been able to get a solid feel for the roster already—what kind of athletes they have, what they’re about. Noted significant gains in the weight room.
▪️Describes the team as athletic with good movement, length, and strength. Emphasized that the players are “very willing and hungry to work.”
▪️On Bryce Underwood: clear No. 1 without a doubt. Has performed well in workouts, continues to grow as a leader, and is a team captain. Teammates look to him to set the pace.
▪️Encouraging Bryce to play off-script and use his natural ability. Sees plenty of room for growth, with strong support from dedicated QB coaches.
▪️Called Michigan “an incredible place” and “one of the pinnacles of college football,” citing elite athletes, resources, and high standards.
▪️Praised Jason Beck for doing a masterful job tailoring the scheme to player strengths. Highlighted Bryce’s dual-threat ability—can beat defenses from the pocket or with his legs.
▪️Practices will ramp up physically, with pads coming on the third day. Expects a tough, physical team.
▪️Emphasized a simple, “plug-and-play” system due to transfers and portal additions—easy to learn, quick to execute, and effective. Planning for some players arriving in summer to still contribute in the fall.
▪️Said nothing about the job has surprised him—it’s exactly what he expected, having followed the program closely and with extensive head coaching experience.
▪️Noted early buy-in from players when he met them in Florida for the bowl game. Despite high recruiting rankings, described them as low-ego and ready to work.
▪️QB2 has not been determined yet, but Tommy Carr has stood out so far.
▪️First-season expectations: disciplined football, minimal penalties, strong special teams, and a tough, physical identity. Wants a well-coached team that plays the right way.
▪️Said the GM is a “linchpin” hire and that leadership is fully aligned with the program’s goals.
▪️Compared to Utah (more developmental, 2–3 star players), Michigan’s roster is more game-ready. Mentioned Savion Hiter and expects multiple freshmen to contribute early.
▪️On leadership: spring captains and a leadership council are key. Plans to revote on captains in fall camp. Called player leadership the “governing body” of the team.
▪️Noted that JHD, Rod Moore, and Andrew Babalola will likely not be available for spring ball
▪️Reiterated that systems on both sides of the ball are designed to be plug-and-play.
▪️Expectations: compete for a Big Ten title and be in contention late in the season. Emphasized that handling Big Ten play will take care of everything else.
▪️On WRs: Andrew Marsh is a tremendous talent. Jaime Ffrench, Salesi Moa, and JJ Buchanan also stood out as the top group so far.
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