The Kyle Whittingham era in Utah is over.

The longtime Utes football head coach is stepping down before his team takes on Nebraska in the Las Vegas Bowl on New Year’s Eve, according to ESPN’s Pete Thamel .

“The time is right to step down from my position as the head football coach at the University of Utah,” Whittingham said in a statement.

“It’s been an honor and a privilege to lead the program for the past 21 years and I’m very grateful for the relationships forged with all the players and assistant coaches that have worked so hard and proudly worn the drum and feather during our time here.

Utah head coach Kyle Whittingham looks at the scoreboard during the first half of an NCAA college football game, against BYU, Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025, in Provo, Utah. AP

“The opportunity to gu

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