"If Michigan offers he can’t turn it down": Kenny Dillingham could ditch Arizona State as Sherrone Moore's replacement, claims CFB analyst

College football analyst John Middlekauff has speculated Arizona State head coach Kenny Dillingham will be unable to turn down an offer from Michigan. Middlekauf raised the speculation on Saturday following an emotional interview by Dillingham, where he declared his love for the Sun Devils.

Dillingham spoke to the press on Saturday amid rumors and reports suggesting he’s a top target for Michigan’s vacant head coaching position. He said:

“I mean, I love this place.”

He followed this with a long, intense, and emotional pause before finally saying:

“Is that a long enough pause? But this place is just, it’s a special place to me.”

Middlekauf, reacting to Dillingham’s statement, posted on X:

“Kinda feel for him. Truly loves ASU, but also knows deep down if Michigan offers, he can’t turn it down. Nor should he.”

Michigan fired former head coach Sherrone Moore last week for violating university policy by having an improper relationship with a staffer. The Wolverines are now forced to look for a new coach this late in the season.

Meanwhile, Arizona State is on the verge of renewing Dillingham’s contract. The coach confirmed this on Saturday when he said:

“They sent my agent one after the last game at some point. … I’m not really involved in that. That’s kind of my team. I coach football.”

Kenny Dillingham admits Michigan is a top job

The coach went on to deny having spoken to Michigan about the Wolverines’ job opening while acknowledging the program’s attractiveness. He said:

“That doesn’t change how I feel about here. That doesn’t change that my sister’s my neighbor. That doesn’t change that my parents live three doors down. … Michigan is one of the best jobs in America; it’s an unbelievable brand, an iconic brand, so a great opportunity for somebody.”

The Sun Devils cruised to a Big 12 title and a berth in the College Football Playoff in 2024 under Kenny Dillingham’s leadership. In three seasons as the team’s head coach, he has posted a 22-16 record.

After an 8-4 finish this season, the team is set to face Duke in the Tony the Tiger Sun Bowl on New Year’s Eve.

Michigan is not the first program to be linked with Kenny Dillingham in the ongoing coaching cycle. He was also previously linked with a move to LSU and Florida. However, he has maintained his commitment to coaching Arizona State.