Day 4 of the Michigan Coaching Search

Candidate No. 4: Brian Kelly (144-53-2 as NCAA head coach)

Experience:
Cincinnati - Head Coach (2007-Present)
Central Michigan - Head Coach (2004-2006)
Grand Valley State - Head Coach (1987-2003)

Positives: He is a winner. Kelly has won two national titles at Grand Valley State and a MAC title at Central Michigan. He has also turned Cincinnati into a Big East contender. He also clearly has ties to the state of Michigan. He knows the state and has relationships with the high school coaching staffs. Kelly is considered a "up-and-comer" in the coaching ranks these days with his offensive innovations.

Negatives: Is this a destination job for Kelly or is he looking for the next step? That means the NFL. Michigan is NOT a stepping stone job, PERIOD. Plus, the last time Bill Martin went after an up-and-comer (Tommy...*cough*...Amaker) it did not play out quite the way he wanted. Kelly is a risky choice.

Probability: 45%
Visitor Hire Rating:

Fri: candidate No. 5 Mike Trgovac