yardbarker
The Michigan Wolverines have made their first major staff change of the Kyle Whittingham era, dismissing offensive coordinator Jason Beck in the wake of Saturday's 15-6 loss to in-state rival Michigan State. The defeat dropped Michigan to 5-4 overall and 2-4 in the Big Ten, turning Whittingham's debut season into a turbulent campaign.
Following the game, Whittingham was asked about potential staff changes, specifically regarding Beck, and stated he preferred to evaluate things after the season, emphasizing he would not be contemplating changes "right now." He did acknowledge that at some point the team needed to start seeing results. It appears "right now" referred only to that immediate moment, as the program decided it could not wait any longer.
Saturday's game marked the sixth time in nine contests that the Wolverines failed to surpass 20 points, and they have scored more than 22 points only twice this season. The lack of scoring and consistency reflects an entire operation that has failed to produce.
Key Analysis
While play-calling and decision-making have drawn scrutiny, the most significant issue has been the lack of development at quarterback. Bryce Underwood arrived at Michigan as one of the most hyped high school quarterbacks in the country but has badly regressed this season. Tommy Carr has not performed much better. Whether changing offensive coordinators will be enough to fix the mess is uncertain, but the Wolverines clearly felt they could not wait any longer. The true test for the program under Whittingham will come next season, his second year, with a new offensive mind on the sidelines. If things do not improve, Whittingham will have to look in the mirror, and Michigan will face even bigger questions.
Originally reported by yardbarker.