Biff Poggi’s time at Michigan has officially come to a close - and while it was short, it certainly wasn’t forgettable.
The interim head coach announced he won’t be returning to the Wolverines for the 2026 season, marking the end of a tenure that was as emotional as it was impactful. Poggi stepped into the role during a turbulent stretch for the program, and while he was never expected to be a long-term solution, his presence brought exactly what Michigan needed in the moment: stability, leadership, and a sense of calm amid the chaos.
Poggi, a longtime figure in Michigan football circles and a respected voice in the sport, took over at a time when the program was searching for steady ground. And in that role, he delivered. He wasn’t flashy, and he didn’t try to reinvent the wheel - but he brought toughness, clarity, and a grounded approach that resonated with players and staff alike.
From the university’s standpoint, the decision not to retain Poggi fits into a broader vision for the future - a desire to move forward with a permanent coaching structure that reflects long-term goals. But that doesn’t mean Poggi’s departure is without emotion.
In fact, it’s quite the opposite. His exit has sparked a wave of appreciation from fans, players, and others around the college football world who saw the value in what he brought to the table.
The Michigan locker room responded with respect. Players acknowledged his leadership and the way he stepped up when the program needed someone to guide them through uncertain waters.
Fans followed suit, flooding social media with messages of gratitude and support. Comments poured in thanking Poggi for his service, praising his character, and even jokingly referencing his name with a nod to pop culture - a sign of how deeply he connected with the fanbase in such a short span.
Sure, not everyone agreed with his coaching style, and like any leader, he faced his share of criticism. But even his detractors would have a hard time denying the role he played in keeping Michigan on course during a critical stretch. He may not have been the long-term answer, but he was the right man for the moment - and that matters.
Now, Michigan turns the page and looks ahead to a new era. But Biff Poggi’s fingerprints will remain on the program.
He helped steady the ship when it needed it most. And for that, the Michigan faithful won’t forget him anytime soon.