BREAKING NEWS: Kyle Whittingham has decided to keep Tony Alford in his role as the running backs coach at Michigan.
In what marks his inaugural choice regarding the coaching team in Ann Arbor, new Michigan head coach Kyle Whittingham is set to retain Tony Alford for another season. Sources have disclosed to Maize & Blue Review that Alford will continue to oversee the running backs, a position he has held for the past two seasons, during which he has nurtured considerable success among his players.
Whittingham and Alford share a professional history, both having collaborated with the renowned Urban Meyer at different points in their careers. On a more personal note, Whittingham brought in Alford's brother, Aaron, as an assistant coach at the University of Utah, where he contributed from 2007 to 2010 before moving into an administrative position.
After a challenging 2025 season plagued by injuries, the Wolverines showcased two running backs, Justice Haynes and Jordan Marshall, who were both on track to surpass the 1,000-yard rushing mark. Haynes concluded the season with an impressive tally of 857 yards and 10 touchdowns, only to be sidelined by a foot injury sustained in late October. Meanwhile, Marshall accumulated 932 rushing yards and also scored 10 touchdowns, but a shoulder injury hampered his performance in the final two games.
Additionally, former walk-on Bryson Kuzdzal stepped up significantly, contributing 244 yards and four touchdowns as he took on a larger role due to the injuries.
Tony Alford played a crucial role in recruiting Haynes from the transfer portal, a move that proved to be one of the standout additions of the cycle. He was also instrumental in securing five-star running back Savion Hiter, who joined the Wolverines in the 2026 recruiting class.
This story is still unfolding.
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