"Time to hang it up": Fans disapprove Utah coach Kyle Whittingham's future decision

Utah Utes head coach Kyle Whittingham announced on Sunday that he will return for his 21st season in 2025. Just two weeks ago, Whittingham expressed uncertainty about continuing, but his return was confirmed with a simple message posted to Utah football's X account: "I'm back." The statement echoed Michael Jordan’s famous NBA comeback announcement in 1995.

Despite Whittingham’s commitment, many fans have voiced their displeasure. Criticism poured in on social media, with one fan bluntly writing:

“Time to hang it up.”

“Give it up man it’s over,” another wrote.

Others chimed in with comments like:

“Most Utah fans and the Utah defensive coordinator don’t like that,” a fan wrote.

“It’s time to retire Kyle,” one fan wrote. “The game of today has passed you by.”

“Unless he turns it around, this might be his last year,” a fan wrote.

“Bro, you’re cooked. Retirement is around the corner,” one wrote.

Some fans also pointed to the struggles of the 2024 season, where the Utes stumbled to a 5-7 finish—Whittingham’s first losing record since 2013. The team’s preseason hopes were high, especially with their debut in the Big 12, but injuries, including losing quarterback Cam Rising for the second straight year, derailed their season. After a promising 4-0 start, Utah dropped seven of their final eight games.

The future of the program is already in motion, as defensive coordinator Morgan Scalley has been named Whittingham’s successor whenever he decides to step down. For now, though, Whittingham is determined to lead the Utes back to success.

Kyle Whittingham has been a cornerstone of Utah football

Utah Utes head coach Kyle Whittingham - Source: Imagn

Kyle Whittingham has been a cornerstone for Utah football since taking over as head coach in 2004. Over his 21-year tenure, he’s built an impressive 167-86 record, earning a 66% win rate. As the second-longest tenured coach in FBS, trailing only Iowa’s Kirk Ferentz, Whittingham’s impact has been undeniable.

Under his leadership, Utah has thrived in bowl games, boasting an 11-6 record. In recent years, he guided the Utes to back-to-back Rose Bowl appearances in 2021 and 2022, with both seasons ending at 10-4.

His finest moment came in 2008 when Utah finished as the nation’s only undefeated team. That year, the Utes capped a perfect 13-0 season with a stunning Sugar Bowl win over Alabama, securing their place in college football history.