Alex Whittingham Embraces Michigan State Rivalry With Help From an Insider

Alex Whittingham understands that rivalry games carry a different weight. His introduction to Michigan’s matchup with Michigan State, however, has provided a closer look at how deeply this particular game reaches into both programs.

Michigan’s linebackers coach said this week’s preparation has included lessons about the rivalry’s history, its importance to supporters and the personal connections between players on opposite sidelines.

Former Michigan player Jon Jansen addressed the team, offering background that Whittingham described as valuable. Whittingham already knew the matchup as a lifelong college football fan, but hearing about it inside the program added context.

Another perspective came directly from his position room.

Aisea Moa, a Michigan State transfer, spoke to Michigan’s linebackers on Monday. Whittingham asked him to share his understanding of the rivalry from the other side, giving teammates insight into how the game is viewed beyond their own building.

Whittingham declined to reveal the specifics of that discussion. What stood out to him was the magnitude of the game and how much it matters to the players themselves.

Many players across the two programs know one another. Some grew up in Michigan, attended high school together or shared teams before their college careers took them in different directions. Those relationships give the matchup meaning that extends beyond its place on the schedule.

Whittingham brings his own rivalry experience to that environment. He referenced his playing days at Utah and eight years watching NFL rivalries while working with Kansas City. Those experiences gave him an appreciation for the emotion involved, even as he acknowledged that professional rivalries have a different character.

His focus now is helping Michigan channel that energy into preparation.

Whittingham said the attention surrounding Michigan became apparent quickly after his arrival. The program’s visibility creates a steady stream of outside opinions, and he believes players must learn to disregard praise and criticism alike.

For coaches, the demands of meetings, practices, film corrections and opponent preparation can naturally narrow that focus. Players need guidance in developing the same approach.

The rivalry’s emotion also must fit within a defense that demands communication and flexibility. Whittingham praised the cooperation among Michigan’s linebackers and safeties, particularly when the defense uses seven-man fronts or brings pressure from different positions.

Chris Bracy has been especially valuable in that structure. Whittingham highlighted his instincts, playmaking and ability to work near the line of scrimmage, joking that he sometimes wants to bring the safety into the linebacker room.

Those connections matter when assignments shift and players must trust one another to execute.

Whittingham’s education in the rivalry has increased his excitement about experiencing it with Michigan’s home crowd. But his broader message remains consistent: understand the significance, embrace the preparation and meet the program’s expectations through performance.