Michigan Officials Explain Sherrone Moore Firing and Policy Violation

Michigan officials have confirmed that head football coach Sherrone Moore was fired for cause after an internal investigation found he engaged in an inappropriate relationship with a staff member. The university announced the decision on December 10, 2025, calling the conduct a violation of established policy and a breach of institutional expectations.

Athletic director Warde Manuel delivered the official statement. He said credible evidence supported the university’s conclusion that Moore’s actions violated workplace standards. The school emphasized that its policies apply to all employees, including high-profile athletic staff.

What Michigan Confirmed About the Firing

Manuel stated that Moore’s conduct “constituted a clear violation of University policy” and required immediate action. The university did not disclose the identity of the staff member or the specific details of the relationship, citing privacy and personnel protections. Officials said the internal review met institutional thresholds for a for-cause termination.

Moore, who completed his second season as head coach, compiled a 9–3 record in 2025. His tenure included earlier suspensions related to NCAA investigations, but officials made clear the firing was based on the policy violation involving the staff member. Moore has not issued a public statement responding to the university’s findings.

Because the dismissal was for cause, Michigan indicated the school is not required to honor the remaining financial obligations of Moore’s contract. The multi-year agreement included protections for the university in cases of policy breaches or misconduct.

The decision comes as Michigan prepares for its Citrus Bowl matchup against Texas on December 31. The program moved quickly to stabilize leadership, naming Biff Poggi as interim head coach. Poggi previously filled in during Moore’s suspension earlier this season and is expected to lead the team through bowl preparation.

How Michigan Described the Policy Violation

The university framed the issue in terms of workplace standards rather than competitive matters. Officials stressed that Michigan holds employees at all levels to the same expectations regarding relationships, conduct, and ethical boundaries. The statement underscored that power dynamics between staff members are taken seriously, particularly inside large athletic programs.

While the university described the evidence as credible, it declined to provide supporting documents or outline the investigative process. Michigan did not answer questions about who initiated the report, how long the investigation lasted, or whether additional employees were interviewed.

The decision also comes at a moment of broader scrutiny for the football program following NCAA penalties and staff turnover. University officials made clear that this firing was independent of those issues. They reiterated that the internal relationship breach was the only confirmed basis for Moore’s removal.

Impact on the Program and Next Steps

Moore’s departure marks Michigan’s third head coaching change in four years. The leadership transition introduces uncertainty into recruiting, player development, and future staffing decisions. The university has not revealed whether it will conduct a national search immediately or wait until after the bowl game.

The athletic department said its priority is maintaining stability through the postseason. Poggi is expected to oversee all team functions while the administration evaluates long-term options. Michigan officials said additional updates will be provided when appropriate.

Michigan’s explanation centers on accountability and adherence to university policies. The institution maintains that the firing was based solely on verified conduct involving a staff member and that its standards apply equally across the athletic department.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What policy violation did Michigan cite?

The university said Moore engaged in an inappropriate relationship with a staff member, which violated Michigan’s internal conduct policies.

Q2: Did Michigan release investigation details?

No. Officials confirmed credible evidence but did not disclose documents, identities, or the investigative timeline.

Q3: Who is coaching Michigan now?

Biff Poggi is serving as interim head coach for the bowl game and all team activities.

Q4: Did the firing affect Moore’s contract payout?

Yes. Because Michigan fired him for cause, the school indicated it does not owe his remaining contract buyout.

Q5: Is the firing related to NCAA issues?

No. Michigan said the dismissal was based solely on the inappropriate relationship and not on NCAA investigations.