The University of Michigan has moved swiftly to stabilise its football programme, officially appointing Kyle Wittingham, the former Utah Utes head coach, as its new leader. The 66-year-old veteran replaces Sherrone Moore, who was fired amidst a personal scandal and subsequent criminal charges.
A Swift and Lucrative Appointment
Wittingham's appointment comes just days after he announced his departure from the University of Utah, where he had worked for over three decades. He has agreed to a five-year contract with the Wolverines, reportedly worth an average of $8.2 million per year, with 75 percent of the money guaranteed, according to ESPN sources.
His long tenure at Utah made him the second-longest tenured active coach at a single FBS school, behind only Iowa's Kirk Ferentz. During his 21-season reign as head coach, which began in 2005, Wittingham secured two Pac-12 Championships, a Mountain West Championship, and multiple national Coach of the Year awards.
The Tumultuous Exit of Sherrone Moore
Wittingham's hiring follows the dramatic and abrupt firing of Sherrone Moore. The 39-year-old married father-of-three was dismissed by Michigan over an alleged 'inappropriate relationship' with a staff member. The situation escalated when Moore was arrested earlier this month.
Police records indicate he was taken into custody after allegedly entering the apartment of his executive assistant, Paige Shiver, confronting her, and threatening to kill himself. Moore faces charges of breaking and entering, home invasion, and stalking. He spent two nights in jail before being released on a $25,000 bond and has pleaded not guilty. If convicted on all counts, he could face up to six years in prison.
Further reports from The Athletic this week suggest five women have since come forward with accounts of awkward exchanges with Moore in the days before his firing, though they do not accuse him of illegal activity. His lawyer, Ellen Michaels, maintains his denial of any criminal wrongdoing.
Rebuilding a Programme in Flux
The speed of Wittingham's hire is strategic, potentially allowing him to lead the Wolverines in their upcoming Camping World Bowl game against Texas on New Year's Eve. Moore's departure has left the programme in disarray, with offensive coordinator Chip Lindsey leaving for Missouri and interim coach Biff Poggi warning that up to 25 players could enter the transfer portal.
Wittingham is expected to bring some stability and is not coming alone. Reports indicate his offensive coordinator at Utah, Jason Beck, will join him in Ann Arbor. This move aims to provide immediate continuity for a team navigating a significant crisis off the field.
For Michigan, the appointment of a respected, seasoned figure like Kyle Wittingham represents a decisive step to close a chaotic chapter and refocus on football, while the legal process for Sherrone Moore continues to unfold separately.
