Michigan’s new head coach Kyle Whittingham is already moving to build his staff, as the Wolverines are working to hire BYU's Jay Hill as the program’s next defensive coordinator, according to On3.
No deal has been finalized, but Whittingham is targeting Hill, his longtime former assistant who currently serves as defensive coordinator for the Cougars. Hill has held that role since 2023 and has quickly built a reputation for disciplined, efficient defenses.
During the 2024 season, BYU allowed just 308.8 yards per game, ranking 13th nationally. The Cougars also finished 35th in total defense, a notable jump for a program navigating its early years in the Big 12.
Before joining BYU, Hill was the head coach at Weber State Wildcats from 2014-22. He compiled a 68-39 overall record, went 50-19 in conference play and guided the Wildcats to four consecutive Big Sky Conference titles. Hill was named Big Sky Coach of the Year in 2020.
Hill and Whittingham share deep ties. Hill spent 13 seasons on staff at Utah from 2001-13, coaching multiple positions under Whittingham after he became head coach in 2005. Needless to say, this would be a scenario for both coaches to be on a bigger level.
If hired, Hill would inherit a Michigan defense that ranked 22nd nationally this season, allowing 312.3 yards per game. He would replace Don Martindale, who served as defensive coordinator since the 2024 campaign.
Michigan is coming off a 9-3 regular season and recently underwent major transition after the unexpected firing of former coach Sherrone Moore. Despite the turmoil, Whittingham has emphasized continuity as he begins his tenure in Ann Arbor, with Hill viewed as a key piece in establishing that foundation.
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