Kyle Whittingham, who recently took over as head coach of the Michigan Wolverines after 22 seasons with Utah, spoke at Big Ten Media Day on July 31, 2026, about the famed rivalry between Michigan and Ohio State. Despite his experience coaching in two Rose Bowls, Whittingham acknowledged that the upcoming November game against Ohio State will be the most important of his career.

Whittingham emphasized the significance of the rivalry but urged patience, noting, "We got 11 games that we play before that, so we're not going to get ahead of ourselves." He also expressed enthusiasm about the possibility of the game deciding the Big Ten championship, calling it "outstanding."

While Whittingham said he wants to beat Ohio State as much as anyone in Ann Arbor, he admitted he has not yet developed the deep-seated hatred often linked to the rivalry, stating, "Hate is a strong word."

The Michigan-Ohio State rivalry has been intense in recent years, including a notable 2024 game when the unranked Wolverines upset the second-ranked Buckeyes in Columbus as three-touchdown underdogs. Following Ohio State's end to a four-game losing streak at Michigan Stadium last November, Michigan players guarded their midfield logo, underscoring the rivalry's intensity.

Whittingham's comments reflect a measured approach as he steps into a high-pressure role with one of college football's most storied programs and rivalries.

Sources