4-Star QB Kamden Lopati Discusses Michigan's Winning Culture Amid Commitment to Illinois
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The Michigan Wolverines are in their first offseason under head coach Kyle Whittingham. However, he brings an abundance of experience, spending time as the Utah Utes head coach from 2004 to 2025 and going 177-88.
High School recruiting has emerged as a top priority. Michigan’s 2027 cycle already ranks 12th in the nation with four commitments.
Quarterback Kamden Lopati, out of West Valley City, Utah, has been committed to the Illinois Fighting Illini since July 27. Standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing 215 pounds, he’s a four-star recruit, the No. 11 quarterback and the No. 142 player in the nation, per Rivals Industry Rankings.
As a junior at West High School, he completed 114-of-176 passes for 2,671 yards, 34 touchdowns, and eight interceptions. Lopati also rushed for 730 yards and 10 touchdowns on 90 carries.
The Wolverines have pushed hard for a flip. In January, offensive coordinator/quarterback coach Jason Beck and quarterback coach Koy Detmer hit the road for a home visit with Lopati.
They’ve made a strong impression. In an article from Rivals’ Steve Wiltfong, the quarterback shared his thoughts on Michigan and the coaching staff.
“I am a huge fan of Coach Whitt, Coach Beck, Coach Detmer,” Lopati said. “What catches my eye is the culture under coach Whitt, and the expectation to win and compete for a National Title every year.”
While flipping him from Illinois would be a big addition, the Wolverines already have one quarterback in the 2027 cycle. Four-star Pete Bourque committed on Aug. 11. He’s also rated higher than Lopati as the nation’s No. 8 quarterback.
Related: Son of NFL Legend Philip Rivers Predicted to Commit to Major College Football Program
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Feb 5, 2026, where it first appeared in the College Football section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
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