Brian Kelly mentioned in connection with Michigan job

Dec 3, 2022; Atlanta, GA, USA; LSU Tigers head coach Brian Kelly prepares for the SEC Championship against the Georgia Bulldogs at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports

While the Michigan Wolverines are clearly leaning toward offensive coordinator Sherrone Moore as their new head coach, one big name is still being linked to the job.

There has been some buzz that LSU coach Brian Kelly could have interest in the Michigan job. It is unclear, however, if Michigan would have any interest in speaking to Kelly.

Bruce Feldman of The Athletic mentioned Kelly as a possible candidate, saying he has heard “a lot of chatter” that the LSU coach would be very interested in the job if he had a chance at it. Kelly spent roughly 15 years coaching at Grand Valley State and Central Michigan, so he is familiar with the state. There is also talk that he has not been an ideal fit in Baton Rouge.

Dennis Dodd of CBS Sports also named Kelly as a potential replacement for Harbaugh, noting that the Wolverines could match Kelly’s hefty salary.

There are drawbacks, however. Feldman noted Kelly’s perceived inauthenticity, which would be a major contrast with how Harbaugh presents himself. In addition, Moore, who is the heavy favorite for the job, is preferred by the players, and there is a risk of some Michigan players entering the transfer portal with an external hire like Kelly.

Kelly arrived at LSU two years ago to much fanfare, but has failed to break through into the College Football Playoff and has been overhauling his staff this offseason. He may not get the Michigan job, but it is interesting that his name is coming up at all for openings like these.