Michigan Terminates Sherrone Moore For Cause Following Internal Misconduct Investigation

2025-12-11 general

Ann Arbor, Thursday, 11 December 2025.
Michigan fired Moore for cause over an inappropriate relationship, potentially voiding a $14 million buyout. Compounding the turmoil, police detained the former coach hours later regarding an alleged assault.

Immediate Termination and Policy Violations

In a decisive move that has shaken the collegiate athletic landscape, the University of Michigan terminated head football coach Sherrone Moore on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 [6][7]. The dismissal, effective immediately, followed an internal investigation that began in mid-November and uncovered credible evidence that Moore engaged in an inappropriate relationship with a staff member [2][7]. Athletic Director Warde Manuel issued a stern statement emphasizing the university’s position, declaring that Moore’s conduct constituted a clear violation of university policy and that the institution maintains “zero tolerance” for such behavior [2][6]. This administrative action brings an abrupt end to Moore’s leadership just two seasons after he succeeded Jim Harbaugh [6][8].

Financial Implications of ‘For Cause’ Status

The classification of the termination as “for cause” is a critical financial distinction for the university. By invoking this clause, Michigan intends to void the substantial contractual obligations that would otherwise be owed to the departing coach. Reports indicate that Moore’s buyout was valued at just shy of $14 million prior to the firing, a sum the university may now avoid paying entirely due to the nature of the dismissal [2][6]. This financial maneuver occurs against the backdrop of a significant compensation package; Moore’s salary for the 2025 season alone was reported to be approximately $6.1 million [6]. The “for cause” designation suggests the university is prepared to defend its decision against potential legal challenges to protect its financial interests.

Legal Developments and Police Detainment

The situation escalated dramatically hours after the university’s announcement. On the evening of Wednesday, December 10, Moore was detained by police in Saline, Michigan, and subsequently transferred to the custody of the Pittsfield Township Police Department [4][6]. Authorities confirmed they are investigating an “alleged assault” and that Moore was lodged at the Washtenaw County Jail pending a review of potential charges [4][6]. Police responded to the incident at the 3000 block of Ann Arbor Saline Road at approximately 4:10 p.m., noting that while the incident did not appear random, there was no ongoing threat to the community [4]. This criminal investigation adds a severe layer of complexity to an already volatile exit from the university.

Program Transition and Competitive Context

Moore leaves the Wolverines with a head coaching record of 18 wins and 8 losses over two seasons, resulting in a win percentage of approximately 69.231 percent [6][8]. His tenure included a 9-3 record in the recently concluded 2025 regular season and an 8-5 finish in 2024 [6]. To manage the program through this turbulent period, the university has appointed Biff Poggi as the interim head coach [2][7]. Poggi is tasked with stabilizing the team as they prepare for their upcoming postseason appearance against Texas in the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl, scheduled for December 31, 2025 [2][8]. Meanwhile, the university faces the challenge of entering the coaching carousel late in the cycle to find a permanent replacement [2].

Sources

University of Michigan Sports Management