Michigan has fired offensive coordinator Jason Beck, the university announced Sunday, one day after a 15-6 loss to rival Michigan State. The move is effective immediately, and offensive line coach Jim Harding will serve as interim coordinator for the remainder of the regular season.

What Michigan announced

Head coach Kyle Whittingham said the results had not met the program’s goals and that he wanted a leadership change to give Michigan’s offense a better chance to succeed. The university said Whittingham will conduct a national search for the next offensive coordinator.

The timing followed a difficult rivalry game: CBS Sports reported that Michigan managed 192 total yards in the 15-6 defeat. The outlet also placed the Wolverines near the bottom of the Football Bowl Subdivision in scoring and total offense, ranking 126th and 132nd, respectively, in its report.

A midseason handoff

Harding’s interim appointment gives Michigan a short-term bridge while the school searches for a permanent coordinator. His immediate task is to lead the offense through the remaining regular-season schedule as the coaching staff evaluates what changes can improve production. The university has not announced a timetable for completing its search.

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Sources

University of Michigan Athletics: Whittingham announces change to offensive coaching staff
CBS Sports: Michigan fires Jason Beck after loss to Michigan State