The Michigan Wolverines will have a new coach as Jim Harbaugh has left the program and accepted the head coaching position with the Los Angeles Chargers. While we will not officially know the next coach for another week due to Michigan state laws having a minimum of seven days, the candidates are going to pile up.
But which coaches have some of the best chances to become the 2024 Michigan Wolverines coach?
Jim Harbaugh Replacement #1: Sherrone Moore
Sherrone Moore has been the pinnacle of the coaching candidates as Michigan’s offensive coordinator is expected to be the new coach to replace Harbaugh. With both defensive coordinator, Jesse Minter and special teams coordinator Jay Harbaugh also expected to leave the program to join the Chargers, Moore is going to be the last man standing.
He was the acting head coach for the third game of the season as well as the final three games of the regular season while Harbaugh was suspended. With players like guard Zak Zinter and former tackle Taylor Lewman publicly supporting Sherrone Moore, this would make the most sense.
Jim Harbaugh Replacement #2: Mike Hart
Mike Hart is the running backs coach and run game coordinator for the Michigan Wolverines since joining the program in 2021. He also was a running back for the program from 2004-2007 where he had 43 total touchdowns (41 rushing, two receiving). Getting an alumnus as the new coach that has experience coaching the program would be a positive spin for the team.
He also was one of the interim coaches when Jim Harbaugh was suspended at the beginning of the season as he was deemed the head coach for the second game of the season against the UNLV Rebels and had a 35-7 victory.
Jim Harbaugh Replacement #3: Lance Leipold
Lance Leipold is the current coach for the Kansas Jayhawks and has struggled a bit as he has posted a 17-21 record since taking over in 2021. However, with a 163-60 record as a head coach overall, Leipold could be Jim Harbaugh’s replacement at Michigan.
His contract buyout is $12.5 million until April 30, when it drops to $6 million. If he impresses during a possible interview, Leipold could be the next coach as he has a strong history as a coach and could take that next step in his career.
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