The Michigan Wolverines are actively seeking a new head coach and have turned their attention to Kalen DeBoer, the current head coach of the Alabama Crimson Tide. As Alabama continues its campaign in the NCAA College Football Playoff, Michigan’s pursuit of DeBoer has gained traction, with reports indicating that the Wolverines have “serious interest” in him, according to FOX Sports college football insider Bruce Feldman.
During a recent episode of the ‘Bear Bets’ podcast, Feldman discussed the ongoing situation. “What I’ve heard is that [DeBoer] does like it at Alabama, and I know the athletic director really likes him,” he stated. “But if they lose, I wonder if that changes the calculus for a lot of people — including DeBoer.” The Crimson Tide, currently ranked ninth, are set to face the eighth-ranked Oklahoma Sooners in the playoff’s first round on December 15, 2023. This game complicates Michigan’s efforts, as DeBoer has expressed his commitment to Alabama amidst the coaching rumors.
Despite a commendable record of 19-7 over his first two seasons at Alabama, DeBoer has faced scrutiny, particularly due to the program’s recent performance. He succeeded the legendary Nick Saban and has been recognized as one of the more accomplished active head coaches in college football. In 2023, he led the Washington Huskies to the national championship game, where they fell to Michigan, further intensifying the rivalry.
DeBoer’s coaching prowess is underscored by his ability to develop talented quarterbacks. Notable players like Michael Penix Jr., who became a first-round draft pick after working with DeBoer at both Indiana and Washington, highlight his success in this area. Current Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson has also garnered attention, with speculation around his potential as a first-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft following a strong season.
Michigan’s offensive struggles have been a point of concern, as the team has struggled significantly in this area over recent seasons. DeBoer’s reputation as an effective offensive coach makes him an appealing candidate for a Wolverines team eager to revitalize its performance. With promising young talent, including Bryce Underwood, the highest-rated quarterback recruit in the Class of 2025, and freshman wide receiver Andrew Marsh, Michigan is looking to bolster its offensive capabilities.
Should DeBoer decline Michigan’s overtures, Feldman suggests alternative candidates for the position. Jedd Fisch, a former Michigan assistant who currently leads the Arizona Wildcats, and Kenny Dillingham, head coach at Arizona State, are both viewed as strong possibilities. Fisch recently achieved a nine-win season at Washington, while Dillingham has transformed Arizona State into a competitive Big 12 program, winning the conference championship in 2024.
As Michigan navigates this coaching search, the future of Kalen DeBoer remains uncertain. The Wolverines are making a significant push, indicating their ambition to return to national prominence in college football. With the College Football Playoff and DeBoer’s current commitments looming, the coming weeks will be crucial in determining the direction of both Michigan and Alabama football.