Sherrone Moore controversy intensifies as Michigan AD calls key parts of the scandal untrue amid investigation

Michigan’s football program entered a turbulent chapter this winter, and now its top athletic leader is addressing the fallout head-on. Athletic director Warde Manuel spoke publicly for the first time since the firing of head coach Sherrone Moore, pushing back against speculation while confirming that a broader review of the department is underway. His remarks offered clarity, restraint, and a clear signal that the university is bracing for uncomfortable truths.

Manuel’s comments arrived as legal and cultural questions continue to swirl around the program. With an external investigation active and criminal charges filed against Moore, Michigan faces scrutiny well beyond the football field. Manuel acknowledged the strain on the community while drawing a firm line between personal empathy and professional responsibility.

Michigan AD addresses Sherrone Moore firing and investigation

Speaking to reporters on December 28, Manuel made it clear that not everything circulating publicly is accurate. “There’s not much I can say,” he said. “There’s an investigation continuing into Coach Moore — there’s a cultural evaluation around the department — and so we will we obviously know some facts. There’s some things that are out there that I can’t comment on, that are untrue, and there may be some things that they find, but that’s why we do an investigation, and I’m very open to that.”

The University of Michigan has enlisted Chicago-based law firm Jenner and Block to examine the athletics department, with Moore’s conduct a central focus. Manuel said he personally requested additional oversight.

“I asked the President to help with a cultural analysis and have somebody come in,” he explained. “So yes, I am very supportive of that, because as a leader, I face reality. There are things that happen. I don’t step away from it. Never have, never will.”



Moore was fired on December 10 following an internal investigation that uncovered evidence of an inappropriate relationship with a female staff member. Later that day, he was arrested and charged with felony home invasion and misdemeanor offenses, including stalking. He was released on bond and is scheduled to return to court on January 22.

Despite describing the situation as emotionally difficult, Manuel said the decision itself was straightforward. “Professionally, it was an easy decision to make because of the expectations that we have for everyone on our side.”

Michigan has since moved forward, naming former Utah coach Kyle Whittingham as Moore’s replacement. In a statement, Manuel praised Whittingham as “a leader of exceptional character,” emphasizing discipline, respect, and accountability as the foundation for the program’s next era.

Also Read: Sherrone Moore scandal deepens as five women come forward with detailed accounts of troubling interactions

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