Michigan Football Team Grapples with Betrayal Following Coach's Dismissal

The University of Michigan football team is in the midst of preparations for their upcoming bowl game, yet the shadow of a recent scandal looms large over the program.

“It has been a tumultuous time,” interim head coach Biff Poggi stated during a press conference on December 15. “A lot of anger. At first disbelief, then anger, then really, what we’re in right now is the phase of the kids, quite frankly, feel very betrayed. We’re trying to work through that.”

Poggi, who stepped in after Sherrone Moore was dismissed on December 10, faces the challenge of guiding a team shaken by revelations of Moore’s alleged inappropriate relationship with a staff member. The investigation led to Moore’s termination and subsequent arrest for breaking into the staff member’s apartment and making threats against himself.

On December 12, during a court hearing, Moore faced charges including third-degree felony home invasion and misdemeanor stalking related to a domestic relationship.

In the wake of these events, Poggi has made it a priority to connect with his players. “I met individually with all the players multiple times,” he noted, adding that he has also engaged in numerous Zoom calls with parents. “I want to listen to them. I want to understand what the kids are feeling and what their parents are feeling. A lot of listening. There’s been a wide range of emotions, as you can imagine.”

He emphasized that the emotional journey for the team is ongoing. “We’re kind of going through those steps. They’re not over yet and I don’t expect them to be over for a while, quite frankly.”

Poggi is operating under a directive from athletic director Warde Manuel: “which is to love and take care of the kids.” He expressed his commitment to this mission, stating, “That’s what I’m spending all my time doing, is loving kids.”

As Michigan gears up for the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl against the University of Texas on New Year’s Eve, Poggi has indicated that the university is allowing players the option to opt-out of the game if they choose. “What we’ve told them is this is a personal decision for you all, based on a very unique situation,” he explained. “So, we’re trying to be really sensitive to making sure that we’re not forcing anybody into doing anything.”

Poggi believes that focusing on game preparation has provided some relief for the players. “Because when they’re inside that rectangle for those hours that we’re either in meetings or practicing, it’s a bit of a sanctuary,” he remarked. “A chance to not think about what is a constant barrage of media questions and things like that.”

Currently serving as a transitional figure until a permanent head coach is appointed, Poggi is aware of the urgency surrounding the search. Reports indicate that the university aims to finalize their decision by the end of the month.

Meanwhile, Moore has been released from jail on a $25,000 bond and is required to wear a GPS tracking device. His next court appearance is set for January 22.