Biff Poggi Takes Helm as Michigan Interim Head Coach Following Sherrone Moore's Arrest

The University of Michigan has appointed Francis “Biff” Poggi as the interim head football coach, stepping in after Sherrone Moore was dismissed and subsequently arrested.

Moore's firing came in December 2025, following an investigation that uncovered an “inappropriate relationship” with a staff member. The situation escalated when Moore allegedly forced his way into the apartment of the woman involved, leading to his arrest.

Poggi, who previously served as an associate head coach under Jim Harbaugh, will lead the Wolverines into their upcoming game against Texas in the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl on New Year’s Eve.

His journey with Michigan began in 2016 when he joined as an analyst. After five years, he was elevated to associate head coach. Following a two-year stint with Harbaugh, Poggi took the reins at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte from 2023 to 2024 before returning to Michigan earlier this year.

Before his collegiate coaching career, Poggi spent 19 seasons at The Gilman School in Baltimore, where he started as an assistant and eventually became head coach. His leadership helped secure 13 Maryland Interscholastic Athletic Association A Conference titles. He also established the football program at Saint Frances Academy, serving as head coach from 2017 to 2020.

Poggi's athletic background includes playing college football at Pittsburgh, followed by graduating from Duke in 1984. Transitioning from sports, he became a hedge fund manager, founding Samuel James Limited in 1986, which contributed to his multimillionaire status. After three decades, he stepped away from the firm.

In his personal life, Poggi married Amy Mix, his college sweetheart, in March 1986. They have five children: Sam, Jim, Henry, Mellie, and Mary.

The university's decision to terminate Moore was based on “credible evidence” of misconduct. A statement from Michigan emphasized their commitment to maintaining a zero-tolerance policy for such behavior.

Following his dismissal, Moore faced legal repercussions for allegedly entering the apartment of the woman involved. Kati Rezmierski, the first assistant prosecutor for Washtenaw County, described Moore's actions during his arraignment as “threatening” and “intimidating.”

Moore is charged with third-degree felony home invasion, misdemeanor stalking related to a domestic relationship, and misdemeanor breaking and entering. If convicted, he could face up to six years and 90 days in prison. A judge granted him release on a $25,000 bond on December 12, with conditions including wearing a GPS tether and refraining from contact with the staff member involved while continuing mental health treatment.