Sherrone Moore started his Wednesday as Michigan’s head football coach, preparing for the Citrus Bowl but ended the day facing serious allegations and unemployment. The University of Michigan terminated Moore’s contract on grounds of misconduct following an investigation that revealed he had an inappropriate relationship with a staff member, a clear violation of university policy.
The university moved quickly to appoint Biff Poggi as interim head coach. Poggi had previously stepped in during Moore’s suspension in 2025, leading the team to victory in both games at that time. The process to find a permanent replacement for Moore is already underway, as the fallout from his abrupt firing continues to unfold.
According to reports, Moore, 39, was taken into custody in Washtenaw County later that evening. He was involved in an alleged assault around 4 p.m. in Pittsfield Township. While police confirmed that a suspect was taken into custody, they did not initially release Moore’s identity, which the school confirmed upon announcing his termination shortly after.
Michigan’s investigation found “credible evidence” of Moore’s inappropriate conduct, marking the end of his two-year tenure as head coach—the shortest for the program since the 1920s. Moore’s record with the Wolverines stood at 17-8, although he had faced suspensions due to his involvement in the program’s sign-stealing scandal.
Moore’s dismissal sparked shockwaves within the college football community, particularly since it coincides with a significant period on the academic calendar when many coaching positions have already been filled. Just days before his termination, Moore had fielded questions from the media regarding the team’s recruiting efforts and its upcoming match against Texas.
His tenure has been rocky; although he had once been poised as the successor to former head coach Jim Harbaugh, who left for the NFL, the on-field performance diminished during his leadership. Michigan’s offense, previously ranked among the best under Harbaugh, struggled significantly, finishing last in yardage in his first season as head coach.
As the Wolverines prepare to face a top-15 Texas team with Poggi at the helm, reactions from players and recruits have been mixed. Some expressed disappointment over Moore’s actions, noting the negative impact on the team and the school’s reputation.
Looking ahead, Michigan is in urgent need of a new head coach, especially with the transfer portal opening soon. Retaining key players will be crucial for the program’s future stability. Potential candidates being considered include coaches with Michigan connections and those currently leading successful programs in the Power Four classifications.
In this challenging time, Wolverines fans can remain hopeful that Michigan will find a leader capable of restoring the program’s integrity and success. The university’s quick action in addressing misconduct reflects a commitment to upholding standards that foster a positive environment for both athletes and staff.