Paul Finebaum believes the Michigan Wolverines coaching job has become one of the least attractive openings in college football. There are some who believe the opposite, but he defended his position by arguing that the fallout from Jim Harbaugh’s tenure has scared away top candidates.
Michigan has already watched potential targets move off the board, with Kenny Dillingham signing an extension at Arizona State and Kalen DeBoer guiding Alabama into the College Football Playoff quarterfinals. Who's next up in Ann Arbor or even a frontrunner? Could Biff Poggi take a one-year deal?
On Sunday's edition of The Matt Barrie Show, Finebaum questioned whether elite coaches would even consider Michigan at this point.
“Why would anyone want that job?” Finebaum said. “There’s simply no leadership, no alignment, and the stench of the Harbaugh regime still permeates the air.”
Harbaugh delivered a national championship before leaving for the Los Angeles Chargers, but his final years were clouded by an alleged sign-stealing scandal, recruiting violations tied to the COVID-19 dead period and NCAA penalties. His successor, Sherrone Moore, was fired earlier this month following allegations of an inappropriate relationship with a staffer.
Despite those changes, Finebaum noted that Michigan athletic director Warde Manuel remains in place, reinforcing the perception of instability around the program. He oversaw the latest round of turmoil, but remains safe.
Finebaum said Michigan needs a coach capable of restoring credibility before chasing championships again. Three coaches who could consider the Wolverines position are former Utah coach Kyle Whittingham, former LSU coach Brian Kelly, and Ed Orgeron.
For a program accustomed to Big Ten titles, the immediate goal may simply be returning to contention. Especially being two years removed from a national championship.
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