On Wednesday, Michigan shockingly had an opening at the head coach spot when they dismissed Sherrone Moore. The completely unexpected decision came after the university claimed it found “credible evidence” that Moore engaged in an inappropriate relationship with a member of the Wolverines staff.
It leaves an opening at a highly coveted job at a point when many of the top head coach candidates have taken jobs elsewhere or signed new long-term extensions with their current schools. However, there are still some big-time options available to Michigan.
With that in mind, let’s look at five potential Sherrone Moore replacements, including Notre Dame head coach Marus Freeman.
Matt Patricia, Ohio State Defensive Coordinator
In his first season leading the Ohio State defense, former Detroit Lions head coach Matt Patricia has been outstanding. He has taken a talent group and turned them into one of the most dominant forces in the nation. He is surely on the radar of many schools, and having head coaching experience — even though he went 13-29 — does mean something. Especially since it came in the same market. He won’t be a favorite for the job, but luring away a key coordinator from their top rival is an intriguing part of considering Patricia.
Brian Kelly, Former LSU Head Coach
Did Brian Kelly’s run at LSU disappoint? Yes. But he is still a proven veteran head coach who has had outstanding runs at Cincinnati and Notre Dame. He was never a good fit for the SEC, but coming back up north to join a legendary Big Ten program is a better fit. If the university wants a coach with a strong resume, Kelly is one of the best available.
Eli Drinkwitz, Missouri Head Coach
While it took some time, Eli Drinkwitz has done some impressive things over the last few seasons overseeing Missouri. Guiding the program to back-to-back double-digit win years for the first time in a decade. While they won’t do it again in 2025, the Tigers still posted an 8-4 record in the deepest conference in the nation, the SEC. He should be on Michigan’s candidate list.
Marcus Freeman, Notre Dame Head Coach
Rumor emerged this week that Notre Dame’s Marcus Freeman is getting interest from the NFL. You can bet he will also get some from Michigan. The former coordinator has been outstanding for the Fighting Irish. Posting a 43-12 record in five seasons, reaching the championship game in 2024, and should have gone back to the playoffs again this year. He would be the dream pick for the Wolverines.
Brent Key, Georgia Tech Head Coach
After becoming an afterthought in the ACC, Brent Key has returned Georgia Tech to relevancy. Following a pair of 7-6 seasons, they took a big leap forward in 2025. Posting a 9-3 record and flirting with the chance to reach the college football playoffs. The 47-year-old is a big-time coach on the rise and will be a candidate for many major jobs in the years ahead, and Michigan should be one of them.
