The University of Michigan announced Wednesday that it has terminated head football coach Sherrone Moore following an internal investigation into what the school described as unprofessional and inappropriate relationship he had with a member of the staff. The move comes less than two years after Moore took over the program.
Moore was reportedly detained by police in Saline, Michigan Wednesday, hours after the university announced he was fired. The City of Saline Police Department told ESPN officers assisted in locating and detaining Moore, who was later turned over to the Pittsfield Township Police Department “for investigation into potential charges.”
University officials said they received reports in late October about conduct by Moore that did not align with institutional standards. According to a statement from athletic director Warde Manuel, the university hired outside counsel to conduct an independent review. That investigation concluded that Moore had engaged in behavior that violated his employment agreement and university policy.
Details surfaced through sources familiar with the situation indicating that the conduct involved inappropriate communications and interactions with adults associated with the program. The university did not disclose specific details publicly but stated the findings were serious enough to warrant immediate dismissal.
Moore, 38, issued an apology through his representatives, acknowledging that he had exercised “poor judgment” and accepting responsibility for his actions. He also confirmed that he would not contest the university’s decision.
Francis Xavier “Biff” Poggi was named the interim head coach and will be on the sidelines when Michigan takes on Texas in the Citrus Bowl on Dec. 31. Earlier this season, Poggi took over for Moore in two games as the head coach served a suspension for his role in a sign-stealing scandal.
Moore previously served as offensive coordinator and interim head coach before being elevated to the top position following Jim Harbaugh’s departure for the NFL. His tenure ends with a 17-8 record and ongoing recruiting operations now in question as the transition unfolds.
The university said it would not comment further, citing privacy considerations and ongoing personnel procedures.