Five things to know about Biff Poggi after Michigan's abrupt firing of Sherrone Moore

Jeff Hauser

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Five things to know about Biff Poggi after Michigan's abrupt firing of Sherrone Moore image

Michigan’s stunning decision to fire head coach Sherrone Moore for cause on Wednesday immediately thrust associate head coach Biff Poggi into the spotlight.

The 66-year-old will lead the Wolverines into the Citrus Bowl against Texas, but his role extends far beyond one game.

Here are five things to know about the unexpected interim coach with the program during one of its most chaotic weeks in years.

1. He’s already coached Michigan twice this season

Poggi isn’t walking in cold. Earlier this year, he filled in for Moore during his two-game suspension tied to the sign-stealing scandal. Michigan won both contests, and Poggi earned strong reviews for his sideline command and strong presence. His familiarity with the roster and staff will be essential as the Wolverines regroup quickly for a high-profile bowl game.

2. Poggi has a unique coaching Background, including being a multi- millionaire in the mid-80s

Before rising through the college coaching ranks, Poggi spent years as a hedge fund manager. He later built a reputation as one of the most influential high school coaches in the Baltimore area, leading powerhouse programs at Gilman School and St. Frances Academy. His player-development and organizational strategies drew praise from Jim Harbaugh, who brought him to Ann Arbor as an analyst in 2016.

3. His brief college head coaching record Is a mixed bag

Poggi spent two seasons as the head coach at Charlotte, posting a 6-16 record before he was dismissed midway through the 2023 campaign. While the results weren't positive, his tenure was marked by roster rebuilding and administrative turmoil. Michigan values his leadership more for culture, structure and continuity than recent win-loss totals.

4. This is his second stint post-Harbaugh and a sign of trust in a crisis

Poggi served as Michigan’s associate head coach in 2021 and 2022, then returned again this season. His long connection to the program made him the clear choice to step in after Moore’s abrupt dismissal. With the Wolverines scrambling to finish a 10-win season, Poggi’s experience inside the building provides a stabilizing force.

5. He’s a short-term solution and Michigan’s bigger questions now begin

Poggi appears well-suited to navigate the bowl game, but he is unlikely to be the long-term answer. Michigan must quickly decide whether to retain portions of Moore’s staff and whether its championship window remains open with a young roster trending upward.

With major jobs at Michigan State and Penn State already filled, the Wolverines face a thinner market, and growing urgency to restore order after a shocking week.

For now, Michigan turns to Poggi, a familiar voice tasked with keeping the program upright while the university goes into its next chapter.