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Shocking news broke in college football on Wednesday, Dec. 10, when Michigan fired head coach Sherrone Moore for cause, according to a statement from Athletic Director Warde Manuel. Moore went 16-8 in two seasons as the head coach in Ann Arbor after taking over for Jim Harbaugh. Michigan improved in Year 2 under Moore and had high hopes for the future with former top-ranked quarterback Bryce Underwood leading the offense. Now the Michigan coaching search will begin with many top names from this cycle already off the board. The Wolverines, however, have one of the top jobs to offer in the country and have deep connections across the coaching world, putting themselves in position to still make a big-time hire under tough circumstances. 

Who are the top names on the Michigan hot board? If you want the latest on the Michigan football coaching search, see what the proven team of experts are saying at TheMichiganInsider.

If you want all of the latest Michigan news and scoop, there's no better place than TheMichiganInsider. It's the most trusted source for intel on the Wolverines and has the largest and most dedicated community of Michigan fans. The staff -- led by longtime insider Sam Webb -- will tell you what's happening before it happens. Sign up for a VIP membership now and uncover all of the insider info, analysis and more.

And right now, TheMichiganInsider is offering 75% off annual subscriptions*, so now is the time to sign up. The team at TMI has revealed an initial hot board, and and there are some surprising names on the list. Head to TheMichiganInsider now to see them all.

Top Michigan football coach candidates

One name the staff has identified as a potential target on the updated (12/12) Michigan football coaching hot board is Chargers defensive coordinator Jesse Minter. Minter had a dominant run as the defensive coordinator at Michigan from 2022-23 before leaving with Jim Harbaugh and holding the same position on his staff with the Chargers.

Minter is viewed as a top candidate for upcoming NFL jobs, but perhaps the chance to return to Michigan could change his path. The Chargers ranked 11th in the NFL in total defense last season and enter Week 15 of this season ranked fourth, so he's done an exceptional job at the highest level.

"With Jim Harbaugh openly endorsing him for head coaching jobs, Minter's rising profile in both college and NFL circles underscores his readiness for a top role," Webb wrote. "If Michigan wants to sustain its elite defensive identity and build for the future, Minter offers a rare blend of proven performance, tactical innovation, and familiarity with the program. Even if he has NFL options, Michigan would be wise to make a compelling case for his return and leadership." See more candidates at TheMichiganInsider.

How to get insider Michigan coaching search updates 

The rest of the list includes several other exciting possibilities, including a coach who is in the College Football Playoff field "who is the hottest name on the list." You can only see who it is by joining TheMichiganInsider.

Who are the top names in the Michigan football coaching search, and which playoff coach could Michigan take a big swing on? Go to TheMichiganInsider to see their Michigan coaching hot board and more, all from a team of reporters with extensive experience covering theWolverines, and find out. 

And remember, TheMichiganInsider is offering 75% off an annual VIP membership, so subscribe now before it's too late.

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