Big Ten Analyst Casts Doubt on Biff Poggi as Michigan HC Search Drags On

Michigan football remains in a strange and uncertain place following the firing of head coach Sherrone Moore, and interim coach Biff Poggi is now at the center of a heated debate. Biff Poggi has not shied away from blunt honesty, even describing Michigan as a “malfunctioning organization.” While that approach has earned him praise from some fans who want transparency and urgency, not everyone believes it makes him the right choice to lead the Wolverines long term.

During a December 24 appearance on the Big Ten Network, former Big Ten tight end Adam Breneman offered a mixed evaluation that ultimately leaned against Biff Poggi becoming Michigan’s next head coach.

“I think Biff Poggi’s a legitimate candidate,” Breneman said. “I don’t think he ultimately should get the head coaching job.”

Breneman’s comments pointed to a bigger-picture belief: Michigan should think bigger. He referenced Penn State’s decision to look beyond familiar names and internal comfort when hiring Matt Campbell, a move that helped stabilize and elevate the program. In Breneman’s view, Michigan should follow a similar path rather than rushing to reward loyalty or internal momentum.

“I think the Michigan job is one of the best in the country,” Breneman added, emphasizing that the Wolverines still carry national weight despite recent setbacks.

Those setbacks include missing out on two major coaching targets. Michigan’s pursuit of Kalen DeBoer went nowhere, and Kenny Dillingham chose to stay at Arizona State by signing an extension. Both were believed to be high on Michigan’s early wish list. Still, Breneman believes Michigan’s timing may actually help in some ways.

“They should be able to go get anyone they want,” he said, calling the situation “a blessing and a curse.” While the delay makes things harder, it also means Michigan is no longer competing with a crowded group of open jobs.

Biff Poggi’s straightforward style and confidence have stood out during his interim run. He led Michigan to wins over Nebraska and Central Michigan while Moore was suspended. However, questions remain about his resume. Biff Poggi’s only FBS head coaching experience came at Charlotte, where results were inconsistent and brief. He has not yet built or sustained a Power Five program, which remains a major concern for decision-makers.

“I think Michigan needs to go find one of the top coaches in the country,” Breneman said, stressing the need for leadership that can rebuild the program “the Michigan way” while winning at the highest level.

Meanwhile, fans are still waiting for clarity on when a final decision will come. ESPN’s Pete Thamel reported on “Get Up” that Michigan is not expected to announce a new head coach this week or immediately after Christmas. That delay looms large with the transfer portal set to open on January 2.

Michigan has already had early conversations with several candidates. According to Thamel, Missouri’s Eli Drinkwitz, Washington’s Jedd Fisch, and former Utah coach Kyle Whittingham are currently in the mix. Drinkwitz is preparing for a December 27 bowl game, Fisch is working to hold his roster together, and Whittingham — who recently resigned from Utah — has openly acknowledged his availability.

With time running out and roster decisions approaching fast, the pressure is rising as Michigan searches for its sixth head coach in the past 31 seasons.

Also Read: Sherrone Moore Out: Michigan Eyes Utah Legend Kyle Whittingham!