Michigan Coaching Search: Paul Finebaum urges Kalen DeBoer to consider Michigan if Alabama falters to Oklahoma
Kalen DeBoer has once again emerged as a potential candidate for the Michigan head-coaching job after Sherrone Moore’s dismissal and removal. Over the past two days, discussions about DeBoer’s fit in Ann Arbor have gained momentum, with pundits weighing how the Wolverines' opening could play out if Alabama’s playoff hopes are affected.
During Friday’s Get Up, Paul Finebaum addressed DeBoer’s possible candidacy for Michigan. He noted that DeBoer’s team—now facing a pivotal week—has already sparked speculation. Finebaum pointed out that DeBoer’s camp may project disinterest in leaving Tuscaloosa, which is understandable given the importance of next week’s game in the College Football Playoff race. He reminded listeners that DeBoer’s tenure at Alabama has had its ups and downs: after a rocky start, the Tide rebounded to win 10 games, reach the SEC Championship, and remain in playoff contention. Still, two seasons with seven losses overall is a notable mark, and a playoff exit next week could prompt further questions about his long-term fit at Alabama.
Finebaum described Alabama’s fan base as cautiously mixed on DeBoer. He highlighted the roller-coaster nature of this season: a season-opening loss to Florida State, a strong midseason stretch, and a late-season setback to Oklahoma. If Alabama suffers a third loss to Oklahoma within two seasons, some observers will view it as unacceptable at the program’s lofty standard. Finebaum recalled past moments when such pressure seemed nearly existential after a national-championship-game defeat, underscoring the relentless expectations at Alabama and questioning how long DeBoer can endure them.
At this stage, it remains unclear whether DeBoer is a legitimate Michigan target or how Michigan’s coaching search will unfold. Finebaum suggested that Alabama’s results in Norman could heavily influence DeBoer’s perceived openness to other opportunities. A win for Alabama would likely shift attention toward a Rose Bowl appearance, while a loss could intensify speculation about DeBoer’s future and leave him more receptive to a Michigan approach, should the Wolverines pursue him.
Josh Pate joined the conversation, offering his own perspective on DeBoer as a potential Michigan candidate. He acknowledged the rationale for considering DeBoer but doubted that he would depart Tuscaloosa so quickly. Pate stressed that DeBoer has repeatedly expressed admiration for his current situation in Alabama and noted that online misperceptions—such as suggestions that he’s miserable at Alabama—don’t align with what he has communicated in public and private discussions. Still, Pate advised Michigan to pursue DeBoer aggressively, making him formally say no if they want a definitive answer.
Bottom line: DeBoer’s name will continue to surface in Michigan’s coaching-search chatter, but the ultimate decision will hinge on Alabama’s playoff fate and how DeBoer himself weighs a potential return to a job in Ann Arbor. As Finebaum put it, keep an eye on the results in Norman, and check back as the situation develops to see whether DeBoer becomes more than just a name on a list.
Would you support Michigan pursuing Kalen DeBoer even if Alabama remains in playoff contention, or would you prefer they target a different path to stability and success? Share your thoughts in the comments.
