Rece Davis Puts David Shaw in the Spotlight for Michigan’s Head Coaching Job
Every Saturday morning during college football season, Rece Davis is the steady presence that kicks off the day for fans across the country. He’s not the loudest voice on the set of College GameDay, nor does he carry the weight of a Hall of Fame coaching career like some of his co-hosts. But what Davis does bring is a sharp football mind, a deep understanding of the game, and a knack for seeing the bigger picture before others do.
And with Michigan now searching for a new head coach following the firing of Sherone Moore, Davis has thrown out a name that’s turning heads: David Shaw.
“If I were in Warde Manuel and Michigan’s position, I’d have David Shaw very high on my list,” Davis posted on social media. “Given the circumstances, likely atop the list.”
That’s not a casual endorsement. Davis isn’t one to toss names out lightly, and this one comes with some serious credibility.
Why David Shaw Makes Sense for Michigan
Let’s start with the resume. Shaw’s football roots run deep-he played at Stanford and later became the Cardinal’s head coach, holding that position from 2011 to 2022.
During that stretch, he built a reputation for running a disciplined, physical program that could compete with the best in the country, all while navigating the academic challenges that come with coaching at Stanford. That’s no small feat.
After stepping away from the college game, Shaw didn’t disappear. He spent time in the NFL as a senior personnel executive with the Denver Broncos and is now the passing game coordinator for the Detroit Lions, one of the hottest teams in the league this season.
Under his watch, Jared Goff has been thriving-posting 3,672 passing yards and 29 touchdowns through 14 games. That kind of production speaks volumes about Shaw’s ability to adapt and evolve, especially in today’s pass-happy game.
But this isn’t just about stats or schemes. It’s about fit. And Shaw checks a lot of boxes for Michigan.
A Steady Hand for a Program in Transition
Michigan’s athletic director Warde Manuel has had his hands full over the past few years. The program has been under constant scrutiny, with off-field issues piling up and now a coaching change that puts the Wolverines at another crossroads.
What Shaw brings to the table is stability. He’s a respected leader, a proven program builder, and someone who’s navigated both college football’s traditional model and the evolving landscape of the NFL. He’s not flashy, but he’s smart, calculated, and deeply respected in coaching circles.
And let’s not overlook the local ties. Shaw is already in the state, working with the Lions, and that proximity could make conversations easier and the transition smoother-especially if Michigan is looking to move quickly.
A Name Worth Watching
Rece Davis doesn’t often play matchmaker, but when he does, it’s worth paying attention. His call for Shaw as a top candidate isn’t just a hot take-it’s a well-reasoned suggestion that fits Michigan’s current needs.
With the Wolverines looking to steady the ship and maintain their national relevance, Shaw could be the kind of hire that brings both credibility and calm to a program in flux. Whether or not Manuel makes the move remains to be seen, but one thing’s clear: David Shaw should be on Michigan’s radar-and maybe even at the top of the list.
Keep an eye on this one.