Jim Harbaugh Reaches Out to Ex-Michigan Coach Sherrone Moore After Scandal

In a recent interview on “The Dan Patrick Show,” Los Angeles Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh revealed he had reached out to his former colleague Sherrone Moore following Moore’s shocking arrest and termination from Michigan. Harbaugh, who had worked closely with Moore during Michigan’s national championship run before leaving for the NFL, sent a text message to the embattled coach after not having spoken to him since early December. Harbaugh’s message was simple but heartfelt: “Keep it together and take care of your family.” He also emphasized the importance of seeking spiritual guidance during such a difficult time. The Chargers coach admitted he’s still struggling to comprehend the situation, calling it “a tragedy” and saying he’s “praying for all concerned.” While expressing his continued love for his alma mater, Harbaugh made it clear his focus remains on his current job, preparing the Chargers for what he called their “most important game.”

The details that emerged from Moore’s court appearance paint a disturbing picture of the events leading to his arrest. According to prosecutors, Moore had been involved in an “intimate relationship” with a Michigan staff member for several years before she ended the relationship on December 8. Following the breakup, Moore allegedly continued contacting the woman through calls and texts, which prompted her to report the situation to the university. After Michigan fired Moore from his head coaching position, prosecutors claim he forced his way into the woman’s home, armed himself with a butter knife and scissors, and began threatening self-harm. He allegedly told the staffer, “My blood is on your hands” and “You ruined my life.” Moore appeared in Washtenaw County court where his bond was set at $25,000 with conditions including no contact with the alleged victim. A not-guilty plea was entered on his behalf.

The sudden dismissal of Moore has left the Michigan football program in turmoil, with interim head coach Biff Poggi describing the emotional journey the team has experienced. Poggi, who had previously stepped in for Moore during a self-imposed suspension earlier in the season, told reporters the players initially responded with disbelief, then anger, and now feel “very betrayed.” The interim coach said he’s focusing on helping the players process these complex emotions while preparing for their upcoming Citrus Bowl game against Texas on December 31. In recognition of the difficult circumstances, Poggi has given players the option to decide whether they want to participate in the bowl game, emphasizing that his primary responsibility is to “love and take care of the kids.”

This shocking development comes just months after the pinnacle of Michigan football success, when Moore, as offensive coordinator under Harbaugh, helped lead the Wolverines to a national championship. Moore had been viewed as Harbaugh’s natural successor when the latter departed for the NFL, and initially, the transition seemed smooth as Moore took over the prestigious program. The revelations of an inappropriate relationship with a staff member and subsequent alleged criminal behavior represent a dramatic fall from grace for a coach who was recently at the height of college football. The contrast between celebrating a national title and facing felony charges less than a year later underscores the sudden, unexpected nature of this scandal.

Harbaugh’s comments reveal the delicate balance he must maintain between his continued emotional connection to Michigan and his professional responsibilities with the Chargers. While clearly affected by the situation involving his former assistant, Harbaugh emphasized that his primary focus must remain on his current team as they push for a playoff berth. His brief message to Moore reflects a compassionate approach to someone experiencing “the worst days of his life” while maintaining appropriate distance from a volatile situation. Harbaugh also made it clear he has no involvement in Michigan’s search for a new head coach, further indicating his commitment to establishing boundaries between his current role and his former program.

The scandal has created ripple effects throughout the Michigan football community, from current players to alumni like Harbaugh to the broader university. The program now faces the challenge of preparing for a bowl game while dealing with the emotional aftermath of betrayal by their head coach. For Moore, the consequences extend far beyond losing his dream job, as he now faces serious legal charges including felony home invasion. The case serves as a sobering reminder of how quickly circumstances can change in collegiate athletics, where coaches are held to high standards not just for their on-field performance but for their personal conduct as well. As Michigan looks to rebuild trust and stability, and as Moore confronts the legal and personal ramifications of his alleged actions, the football community continues to process this unexpected tragedy that has forever altered the narrative of the defending national champions.