Overview
- ESPN's Pete Thamel reported a hire is not expected this week or immediately after Christmas, with the transfer portal opening Jan. 2.
- Thamel identified Missouri's Eli Drinkwitz, Washington's Jedd Fisch and outgoing Utah coach Kyle Whittingham as leading, attainable options.
- FootballScoop reported Michigan has begun vetting Ravens offensive coordinator Todd Monken and intends to speak with him this week, while reports differ on Louisville's Jeff Brohm being in the main mix.
- Interim coach Biff Poggi said as many as 25 players may not return from the holiday break, with three bowl opt-outs already confirmed for the Dec. 31 Citrus Bowl.
- The turmoil follows Sherrone Moore's firing over an inappropriate relationship and his not guilty plea to criminal charges, as new reporting details staff friction under his tenure including a February clash with Wink Martindale.