Poggi Says He Was a Finalist for Michigan Coaching Job

Biff Poggi said he believed he would become Michigan’s head coach after four interviews for the position, but the university chose Kyle Whittingham. Poggi, a former Wolverines assistant and interim coach, said the decision was difficult because he expected to remain with the players.

Poggi took over as interim coach twice during the season after Sherrone Moore was suspended and later fired. He won both games during his first stint and coached Michigan in the Citrus Bowl before the university completed its search.

Whittingham came to Michigan after 21 seasons leading Utah. Poggi said the new coach faced a different setting in the Big Ten and urged patience, saying Michigan should give him as long as three seasons before judging the results. He described Whittingham as a good coach who cares about his players.

Michigan was 5-3 overall and 2-3 in Big Ten play at the time of the report. Poggi, now an analyst, has said he wants to return to coaching.