ANN ARBOR, Mich. — The University of Michigan fired linebackers coach Chris Partridge on Friday, a day before the team’s game at Maryland.
It’s the latest turmoil for the undefeated Wolverines, who have been No. 2 in the AP Top 25 poll since the preseason and are No. 3 in this week’s College Football Playoff rankings. They’re also under NCAA investigation for an alleged sign-stealing scheme and will not have head coach Jim Harbaugh on the sideline until after next week’s showdown against rival Ohio State.
Athletic director Warde Manuel did not say why Partridge had been let go, citing employee privacy laws. Yahoo Sports, citing sources it did not identify, reported that Partridge allegedly tried to cover up evidence after the scheme became public. Partridge did not return a text from AP seeking comment.
“From the outset, our focus has been on seeking due process and allowing the NCAA to conduct a fair and deliberate investigation,” Manuel said, noting the school was continuing to cooperate with the sanctioning body. “Consistent with our commitment to integrity, we will continue to take the appropriate actions, including disciplinary measures, based on information we obtain.”
The firing came one day after the school reached an agreement with the Big Ten Conference under which Harbaugh will serve the final two games of his three-game suspension in return for the conference ending its investigation into the sign-stealing allegations. Harbaugh is allowed to work with the Wolverines during the week as they prepare, but he must leaving the game-day coaching duties to his assistants.