UPDATE: Michigan Wolverines head coach Sherrone Moore has confirmed he maintains regular communication with legendary coach Nick Saban, emphasizing the importance of mentorship in college football. Speaking during a press conference on November 10, 2023, in Ann Arbor, Moore revealed that he reaches out to Saban approximately every month or two for guidance.
“When you call Coach Saban, sometimes it’s like, you don’t know if he really wants to talk to you, but he does,” Moore explained. “Once he starts talking, it’s outstanding. Why not take advice from somebody who you consider probably the GOAT of college football?”
This revelation comes on the heels of the Wolverines’ stunning victory over Saban’s Alabama team, where Michigan triumphed 27-20 in overtime at the Rose Bowl on January 1, 2024, marking Saban’s final game as head coach. The win solidified Michigan’s place in the College Football Playoff and highlighted the Wolverines’ growing prominence in the sport.
Moore’s relationship with Saban is further strengthened through mutual connections. Michigan associate head coach Biff Poggi has been friends with Saban for years, leading Moore to reach out for Saban’s contact after being hired as the full-time coach in February 2024, following Jim Harbaugh‘s departure to the NFL’s Los Angeles Chargers.
Reflecting on their conversations, Moore shared an anecdote from their discussions, recalling Saban’s candid feedback on Michigan’s game plan during their matchup. “I remember [Saban] talking about, you know, ‘I really didn’t like you guys, the game plan against us, you shifted, motion to every play was annoying,’” Moore said, smiling as he recounted the moment. “And I was like, ‘Thanks, coach.’”
As Michigan prepares for the upcoming season, the insights gained from Saban could prove invaluable. With Michigan’s recent successes, including their significant victory over Alabama, the pressure is mounting on Moore to maintain the program’s upward trajectory.
When asked about the possibility of Saban attempting to sabotage his coaching efforts as payback for the loss, Moore chuckled, “No, I don’t think so. Unless we’re playing Alabama.” This light-hearted exchange underscores the camaraderie and respect present within the coaching fraternity.
As Michigan fans gear up for the next season, it remains to be seen how Moore will leverage his connections and experiences to elevate the Wolverines further in college football.
Stay tuned for more updates on Michigan’s football journey and Moore’s coaching strategies as the season unfolds.
