At 3:18 p.m. on Saturday, almost precisely 24 hours after the news broke that the Big Ten had suspended Michigan coach Jim Harbaugh, the final moments counted down in the third-ranked Wolverines’ most significant victory of the season.
It marked the onset of hugs and tears for Sherrone Moore.
The 37-year-old offensive coordinator of Michigan, who assumed the role of acting head coach for the 24-15 triumph against No. 10 Penn State, managed to maintain composure for most of the game. He engaged in a discussion with offensive lineman LaDarius Henderson during a timeout between quarters, celebrated a Donovan Edwards touchdown run with a pumped fist, and directed spirited encouragement towards Michigan fans after Blake Corum’s decisive touchdown with 4:15 remaining, exclaiming, “Let’s go!”
Moore admitted to keeping his emotions in check until the conclusion of the game, at which point he released it all. Following an emotionally charged and candid interview with Fox immediately after the game, Moore embraced Corum and cornerback Mike Sainristil. Subsequently, he shared a prolonged hug with Albert Karschnia, Michigan’s director of recruiting operations, who shares a history with Moore dating back to their time at Central Michigan. after the news broke
The next in line were the offensive linemen, Moore’s proteges and the unit he helped guide to consecutive Joe Moore Awards as the best in the country. Moore warmly embraced senior guard Zak Zinter before making his way towards the Michigan crowd with senior guard Trevor Keegan.
“It was built up,” Moore remarked. “Just thinking about our players and how hard they’ve worked, through all this craziness and all the situations that are going on… For us to come to this environment and win was huge. I just think about [Harbaugh], man. Love that man with all my heart. Just such a great person, great human, great coach. Just wanted to do it for him.”
Both Moore and the Wolverines anticipated a challenging week as the Big Ten deliberated on discipline for the program. More details had surfaced about the signal-stealing operation allegedly orchestrated by former staff member Connor Stalions, triggering an NCAA investigation. Harbaugh had informed Moore that if the Big Ten opted for a suspension, he would step into the role.