Why Was Michigan Coach Sherrone Moore Fired and Detained by Police? AD Warde Manuel Speaks Out on Policy Violations

Michigan fired head football coach Sherrone Moore on December 10, 2025, after a university investigation found credible evidence he engaged in an inappropriate relationship with a staff member. Hours later, Moore was detained by police and booked into the Washtenaw County Jail as authorities investigated an alleged assault reported in Pittsfield Township.

Athletic director Warde Manuel released a detailed statement explaining why the university moved swiftly and why the violation met the threshold for termination with cause. The firing marks one of the most serious and abrupt leadership changes in recent Michigan football history, coming as the Wolverines prepare for their postseason bowl game.

Michigan Explains Why It Fired Sherrone Moore

In a public statement, AD Warde Manuel said Sherrone Moore was “terminated, with cause, effective immediately,” following the conclusion of an internal investigation. The university determined that Moore engaged in an inappropriate relationship with a staff member, behavior officials described as a clear violation of institutional policy.

Manuel emphasized that Michigan maintains “zero tolerance” for conduct that compromises the safety, fairness, or integrity of the athletic department. He also noted that all university employees, regardless of position, are expected to adhere to the same behavioral standards.

Michigan did not publicly identify the staff member involved, citing privacy rules. The school also did not disclose whether the relationship was reported internally or discovered during routine compliance procedures. Moore had served two seasons as head coach, compiling a record of 17–8.

Associate head coach Biff Poggi was named interim head coach for the remainder of the season. Poggi is expected to lead the Wolverines in the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl against Texas on December 31.

Police Detained Moore During Investigation Into Alleged Assault

Shortly after the firing, Moore was detained by police in connection with an alleged assault that occurred in the area of Ann Arbor–Saline Road. Authorities confirmed that Saline police first located Moore and then transferred him to Pittsfield Township officers, who were leading the investigation.

Pittsfield Township police stated that the incident “did not appear to be random” and that there was no ongoing threat to the public. They also confirmed that a suspect in the case was lodged at the Washtenaw County Jail pending review by prosecutors.

As of the latest official update, no charges had been formally filed. Moore’s detention status and potential charges will depend on the outcome of the prosecutor’s review. Police have not confirmed whether the alleged assault is connected to the university’s internal findings.

The Washtenaw County Prosecutor’s Office has not announced a timetable for a charging decision. Michigan officials have declined further comment, citing the active law-enforcement investigation.

Impact on Michigan Football and What Comes Next

The firing and detention of Moore have triggered immediate consequences for the program. Michigan now begins another coaching search less than two years after Jim Harbaugh’s departure, adding instability at a time when roster retention and recruiting cycles are highly compressed.

Recruits and current players may seek clarity on the future leadership of the program. Boosters and university stakeholders also expect a decisive and transparent response to maintain confidence in the athletic department’s oversight systems.

For Moore, the fallout is both professional and legal. Losing his position for cause eliminates his contractual protections, and the pending assault investigation adds uncertainty to his future in coaching. Additional details are expected as law enforcement reviews the evidence gathered on December 10.

For now, the question remains: Why Was Michigan Coach Sherrone Moore Fired and Detained by Police? With AD Warde Manuel speaking out on policy violations and police continuing their investigation, Michigan faces a pivotal moment as it prepares for its postseason and searches for new leadership.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Why did Michigan fire Sherrone Moore?

The university said he violated policy by engaging in an inappropriate relationship with a staff member. Officials called the conduct unacceptable and terminated him for cause.

Q2: Why was Sherrone Moore detained by police?

Police detained Moore while investigating an alleged assault in Pittsfield Township. He was booked into the Washtenaw County Jail pending review by prosecutors.

Q3: Has Sherrone Moore been charged?

No charges have been formally filed as of the latest update. Prosecutors are reviewing evidence gathered on December 10.

Q4: Who is leading Michigan football now?

Biff Poggi, the associate head coach, has been named interim head coach for the bowl game and transition period.

Q5: Did police link the alleged assault to the university investigation?

Police have not confirmed any connection. Michigan’s internal findings and the criminal investigation are being handled separately.

References

Associated Press | Michigan fires football coach Sherrone Moore for policy violation | December 10, 2025

ESPN | Michigan fires Moore for inappropriate relationship; detained later in assault probe | December 10, 2025

The Washington Post | Michigan fires Sherrone Moore, police detain former coach in assault investigation | December 10, 2025

People | Michigan coach detained hours after firing over inappropriate relationship | December 10, 2025