Report Reveals Why Michigan Fired Chris Partridge On Friday
ANN ARBOR, MI - APRIL 01: Defensive Coordinator Steve Clinkscale, Special Teams Coordinator Jay Harbaugh and Linebackers Coach Chris Partridge look on during the fourth quarter of the Michigan Football spring game at Michigan Stadium on April 1, 2023 in Ann Arbor, Michigan. (Photo by Jaime Crawford/Getty Images)
On Friday, Michigan announced that linebackers coach Chris Partridge has been relieved of his duties.
"From the outset, our focus has been on seeking due process and allowing the NCAA to conduct a fair and deliberate investigation," Michigan said in a statement. "Although the Big Ten has closed its investigation, we are continuing to cooperate with the NCAA as it moves forward with its ongoing investigation. Consistent with our commitment to integrity, we will continue to take the appropriate actions, including disciplinary measures, based on information we obtain. Earlier today, Michigan Athletics relieved Chris Partridge of his duties as a member of the Michigan Football staff. Due to employee privacy laws, we are unable to comment further."
The timing of this decision is interesting to say the least. Partridge was fired less than 24 hours after Jim Harbaugh accepted his three-game suspension.
So, what led to Partridge's departure?
According to Ross Dellenger and Dan Wetzel of Yahoo Sports, Partridge didn't allegedly know about Connor Stalions' sign-stealing scheme. He apparently tried to cover up the evidence though.
The Yahoo report claims that a Michigan assistant "participated in the destruction of evidence on a computer after the scandal broke."
ESPN, meanwhile, reported that Partridge's firing has to do with his "lack of cooperation with the NCAA investigation."
Michigan will face Maryland this Saturday on the road.
