Matt Barrie Calls Michigan Coaching Favorite a Move That Was Never Real
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The Michigan Wolverines are searching for a new head coach after firing Sherrone Moore, who was in his second season leading the program.
ESPN’s Pete Thamel reported that a university investigation found credible evidence of an inappropriate relationship between Moore and a staff member, which led to Moore’s termination. Subsequently, he was arrested by the police for an alleged assault. He now faces charges of third-degree home invasion, stalking, and breaking and entering.
One of the most talked-about candidates to replace Moore was Kenny Dillingham, the head coach of the Arizona State Sun Devils. However, it has been reported that Dillingham has signed a new five-year contract that will average nearly $7.5 million per year. This development will likely remove him from consideration for the Michigan coaching position.
On “The Matt Barrie Show,” the college football analyst stated that he believes Dillingham was never inclined to accept that job.
“He wasn’t going,” Barrie said. “He was never going to leave. He was playing it to get what he needed at Arizona State.”
Dillingham’s new deal underscores how quickly Michigan’s coaching search landscape is changing. Once viewed as a rising candidate capable of stabilizing the Wolverines after Moore’s termination, Dillingham now represents a broader trend of coaches choosing security and alignment over uncertainty.
From Arizona State’s perspective, the deal reinforces institutional commitment to a coach who has delivered a Big 12 championship and a College Football Playoff appearance. His new contract places Dillingham closer to the upper tier of the coaching market and signals confidence that continuity outweighs carousel speculation. Historically, programs that move quickly to lock in ascending coaches tend to avoid roster attrition and recruiting instability, a contrast to the uncertainty Michigan now faces.
Looking ahead, Michigan’s search continues under intense scrutiny, with fewer proven options available as the cycle advances. As more candidates either recommit elsewhere or opt out entirely, the Wolverines may be forced to recalibrate their priorities, focusing less on splash and more on fit, as they attempt to regain footing during one of the most turbulent stretches in program history.
Related: New Favorite Emerges to Replace Sherrone Moore at Michigan
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Dec 22, 2025, where it first appeared in the College Football section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
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