Michigan to Conduct National Search for New Offensive Coordinator

Michigan fired Jason Beck on Sunday following an embarrassing 15-6 loss to Michigan State, concluding a brief nine-game tenure in Ann Arbor that left fans frustrated for weeks.

With three games remaining in the season, Kyle Whittingham named offensive line coach Jim Harding as interim offensive coordinator. Whittingham acknowledged the mounting pressure surrounding the program after Saturday’s defeat, noting that while he would evaluate his own position after the season, a national search will be conducted to find the next permanent coordinator.

The Wolverines face a hefty buyout for Beck, making the next hire critical for the program’s trajectory regardless of who leads the sideline in 2027. The situation has prompted speculation regarding four potential candidates for the vacancy.

Kelly has revitalized Northwestern’s offense this season under David Braun, producing the nation’s 38th-ranked total offense and averaging 190 rushing yards per contest. He previously served as head coach at Oregon and UCLA and coordinated the offense at Ohio State.

Arroyo brings a prior working relationship with Whittingham from their days in the Big 12. Working alongside Kenny Dillingham at Arizona State since 2024, Arroyo helped direct productive units that ranked 30th nationally in 2025 and 28th in 2024, though the Sun Devils experienced a step back this season amid quarterback injuries.

Per the terms of his contract, Jason Beck is set to be owed up to $10.1 million dollars. That's nearly $7 million in salary and nearly $3.1 in retention bonuses. The contract is subject to off-set and mitigation. It's believed to be the biggest buyout for a college assistant. https://t.co/wkZ6vnb6tZ

— Post by @PeteThamel on X

Roderick shares a deep familiarity with Whittingham, having coached under him at Utah from 2005 to 2016 before taking over as BYU’s offensive coordinator in 2021. The Cougars have maintained a top-60 offense since 2023, leaning on a power rushing attack.

Kennedy arrived at UCLA alongside Bob Chesney from James Madison, anchoring a Bruins ground game that ranks 14th nationally. Prying Kennedy away from UCLA could prove challenging, but the Michigan brand offers a substantial pull.