WVU's Rodriguez to coach Michigan
December 16, 2007
Sporting News staff reports
ANN ARBOR, Mich. -- Michigan has hired West Virginia's Rich Rodriguez as its next football coach following nearly a month-long search that saw two other top prospects decide to stay put.
Rodriguez, whose No. 11 Mountaineers are preparing for their second BCS game in three seasons, will take over Michigan's program from Lloyd Carr, Michigan athletic department spokesman Bruce Madej said Sunday. Two sources close to the situation confirmed Rodriguez's departure to Sporting News' Tom Dienhart.
Carr announced his retirement Nov. 19 after 13 seasons.
According to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, Rodriguez told West Virginia players of his departure at a team meeting this afternoon, and that he will have to pay the $4 million of his buyout clause. WBOY-TV in West Virginia and the Charleston Gazette also reported of the meeting.
Sporting News Radio first reported on Friday that Rodriguez had met with Wolverines officials to talk about the job.
Rodriguez came close to taking the Alabama job last year before deciding to stay at West Virginia, his alma mater, with an enhanced contract.
Rodriguez had been head coach at West Virginia since 2001. He compiled a 60-26 record with the Mountaineers, who face Oklahoma next month in the Fiesta Bowl.