Michigan Promotes Sherrone Moore as Head Coach to Replace Jim Harbaugh
In a surprising move, the University of Michigan has announced that offensive coordinator Sherrone Moore will be taking over as the head coach of the Wolverines. Moore will be replacing Jim Harbaugh, who recently left to join the Los Angeles Chargers. This promotion comes after Moore served as Michigan’s acting head coach for four games in 2023 during Harbaugh’s suspensions.
Moore, who has been a part of the Wolverines’ coaching staff for the past six seasons, expressed his excitement about the opportunity. “I have been preparing my entire coaching career for this opportunity and I can’t think of a better place to be head coach than at the University of Michigan,” Moore said. He also emphasized his commitment to upholding the legacy of championship football that Michigan has built over the past 144 years.
The decision to promote Moore reflects Michigan’s desire for continuity during a challenging coaching transition. With several star players leaving for the NFL Draft, the Wolverines are already facing the possibility of losing more talent to the transfer portal. By promoting Moore, a well-respected staff veteran and emotional leader, Michigan hopes to retain its players and continue its success.
Moore’s leadership qualities have been evident throughout his time at Michigan. In 2023, when he took charge of the team during Harbaugh’s suspension, Moore became a prominent figure for the program. His emotional on-field interview after the Wolverines’ victory over Penn State elevated his national visibility and showcased his ability to rally the team.
Athletic director Warde Manuel praised Moore’s leadership skills, stating, “Sherrone has proven to be a great leader for our football program, especially the offensive line and players on the offensive side of the football.” Manuel described Moore as dynamic, fierce, and competitive, highlighting his ability to bring out the best in the players he mentors.
Moore’s coaching journey began as a player on the offensive line for Oklahoma under Bob Stoops. He then transitioned into coaching, working under Steve Kragthorpe and Charlie Strong at Louisville. Since then, Moore has been in the state of Michigan, serving as the tight ends coach at Central Michigan before joining the Wolverines’ coaching staff in 2018. He has played a crucial role in developing Michigan’s elite offensive line, which has earned consecutive Joe Moore Awards in 2021 and 2022.
Taking over as head coach after winning a national championship is a rare position, and Moore finds himself in the company of only three other coaches since World War II who have faced this challenge. However, history shows that the previous coaches who succeeded reigning national title winners enjoyed success. Jackie Sherrill, Jimmy Johnson, and Frank Solich all had impressive records during their tenure.
Looking ahead, Moore will face several challenges in the upcoming season. The Wolverines are already in a rebuilding phase, with an evolving roster and a difficult schedule. Michigan will face tough opponents such as Texas, USC, Washington, Oregon, and Ohio State. Additionally, the team will have to address key issues like the uncertain quarterback situation left behind by J.J. McCarthy’s departure.
Moore’s promotion also prevented potential disruptions in the coaching industry. If Michigan had pursued other candidates like Brian Kelly or Eli Drinkwitz, it could have set off a chain reaction of coaching changes. This would have added to the already significant turnover in the coaching landscape following Nick Saban’s retirement.
Overall, Michigan’s decision to promote Sherrone Moore as head coach demonstrates their commitment to continuity and maintaining their winning tradition. With Moore’s leadership and the support of the players and staff, the Wolverines aim to overcome the challenges ahead and continue their pursuit of Big Ten titles and national championships.
