Michigan's Kenny Dillingham Chances Get Update From ESPN Reporter
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The Michigan Wolverines are on the hunt for a new head coach after the firing of Sherrone Moore sent shockwaves throughout the college football world.
The Wolveirnes have been linked to Arizona State head coach Kenny Dillingham, Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer, former Wolverines defensive coordinator Jesse Minter and others as their search has evolved.
On Wednesday, ESPN college football writer Pete Thamel gave an update on the situation during which he revealed that Michigan has a big edge over the Sun Devils in one key area.
Where Michigan Stands With Kenny Dillingham
Michigan has not hired the 35-year-old Arizona State coach yet but the rumor mill has linked the Wolverines to the Sun Devils’ rising star, who led his team to the College Football Playoff last year and nearly beat the Texas Longhorns, Michigan’s Citrus Bowl opponent.
Things have been tight-lipped in recent days.
Arizona State reporter Chris Karpman of SunDevilSource.com said he does not know whether or not there has been dialogue between Dillingham and the Wolverines, adding that he believes Michigan could hire the ASU coach if a new amended contract is not reached between Dillingham and his employer soon.
Michigan Has Key Edge Over ASU, Thamel Says
Michigan’s program stability and financing give the Wolverines a big edge over the Sun Devils according to Thamel, who spoke at length on the topic Wednesday.
“I think that for Arizona State, that level, the difference between Arizona State and Michigan and Alabama, whatever, has always been pronounced, let’s not kid ourselves,” Thamel said.
“I don’t think it’s ever been more pronounced,” he added.
Leavitt’s Exit Looms Large, Thamel Says
Thamel noted that Dillingham took a former Michigan State QB, Sam Leavitt, and developed him into a future first round NFL Draft pick after two years at ASU.
Leavitt is now in the transfer portal and looking to transfer to play for championship contenders including Miami (FL), Indiana, Oregon and LSU.
Thamel believes Leavitt leaving is an indictment on ASU’s program in comparison with schools like Michigan.
“I’ve not talked to anybody at Arizona State about this but that reality, that looms large, man,” Thamel said.
“Like, we can do it all right, still have somebody come in, money whip our guy, pull him out, and uh, send him on his way,” the ESPN reporter added, putting himself in Dillingham’s shoes to describe how he might be feeling in regards to Leavitt leaving and what it means for the Sun Devils’ program status going forward.
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This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Dec 17, 2025, where it first appeared in the College section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
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