What is Kyle Whittingham's Buyout? Michigan Football Has a Decision to Make
Michigan faces a difficult finish
Michigan hired Whittingham, nearly 67, after off-field issues involving Sherrone Moore. But the Wolverines’ results have brought new concerns: they are 5-5 after losing 31-7 to Oregon, and a bowl appearance appears doubtful.
Michigan is scheduled to play undefeated UCLA this weekend, then travel to face rival Ohio State. The account says the team would need to improve substantially to win either game. It says a decision on Whittingham may come in two weeks or sooner.
Whittingham’s contract terms
Whittingham, who spent 21 seasons as Utah’s head coach, signed a five-year Michigan contract worth $41 million. If Michigan fires him, the contract calls for payments equal to 75% of his head coach base salary, made monthly through the rest of the term.
The account estimates that dismissing him after this season would cost Michigan around $24.75 million. It also says he must seek new employment immediately, though the writer considers retirement more likely given Whittingham’s age and his Michigan results.
Beck adds to the cost
Michigan also owes former offensive coordinator Jason Beck, whom it fired after nine games. Beck joined Michigan after one season at Utah; the team had the 132nd-ranked offense this season under his direction.
Beck signed a three-year, $9 million contract with a signing bonus. The account says Michigan could pay him up to $10.1 million.
A season under scrutiny
Whittingham is looking ahead to next season and hopes recruiting and the transfer portal can address Michigan’s problems. The article says the team is close to its worst season since 2014, when Brady Hoke lost his job.
That comparison raises questions about Whittingham’s future, but the account does not report a decision by Michigan. The potential cost of a departure would come alongside the team’s looming games and its poor record.
Key points
- Michigan is 5-5 after its 31-7 loss to Oregon, with UCLA and Ohio State next.
- A firing after this season could cost Michigan around $24.75 million under Whittingham’s contract.
- Michigan could also owe former coordinator Jason Beck up to $10.1 million.
- Whittingham hopes recruiting and the transfer portal will improve the team next season.