OT (sort of): Interesting Takes from Harbaugh Introductory Press Conference

Didn’t see this posted anywhere. And I know, I know. He’s gone and moved on. However, I thought there were some interesting takes from his press conference with the Chargers, specifically his take on NIL, new hire Ben Herbert, and “conversations” with Sherrone after he left:

 

https://www.on3.com/teams/michigan-wolverines/news/michigan-what-jim-harbaugh-said-about-u-m-at-chargers-presser/

 

On where the Michigan program is at after his departure and with Sherrone Moore as the new head coach​​​​​​​:

 

“Sherrone is the right man for the job. Nobody else would be … I mean, that’s the guy, and they got it right. I see they’re a top-five team right now, top-rated team. I think of it as one — Chargers and Michigan Wolverines like one team, and in a great place. In a great place.

“Much like when players leave the university to go onto the pros, there’s a passing of the baton that takes place. When you see [Michigan quarterback] J.J. [McCarthy] leave [for the NFL Draft], but then I see [juniors] Jayden Denegal, Alex Orji, that next day they’re on that field, they’re throwing with receivers. There’s an excitement there. Been enthralled in that as a player, when the quarterback ahead of me left or graduated. And it’s the same for coaches.

“Been talking to Sherrone Moore. I mean, the guy is on fire right now. He’s working hard.”

 

 

On if Jesse Minter and Ben Herbert are joining the Chargers:

 

Coaches like [Michigan defensive coordinator] Jesse Minter — he’s a tremendous coach. We’re going through a process right now. Ben Herbert, I can confirm that he’s going to be in charge, but the passing of the baton was there to Justin Tress — J. Tress. Hugged it out and right there in the middle of the weight room. In great hands. I’m always gonna be a loyal Wolverine.”

 

 

On if Jesse Minter and Jay Harbaugh will join the Chargers staff:

 

“Going through the process right now. Timeline … just gotta get it right. There are so many good coaches out there, and nobody I respect more than Jesse. Shining star as a coach. You know I’ve been with him [for two years at Michigan]. 

 

I want to talk to as many people as I can before we make the final hires. But he would be tremendous. 

 

Jay is a great coach, a shining star, as well. We’ll let you know. We haven’t made the final decisions on the staff yet.”

 

Harbaugh on if NIL was overwhelming as a coach:

 

“I don’t look at the obstacles. Every job has its downside or challenge or adversity, but no, I have no complaint. People that complain, that’s a common plain — that word comes from ‘common-plain.’ They want to get you to agree with them. I’ve got no complaints. I’ve got no complaints. I love football, love coaching, and faith, family, football. This opportunity I just have tremendous gratitude for.”

 

 

On if Michigan could’ve done anything to keep him:

 

“Michigan was great. Michigan — have a great love for Michigan and great love for the NFL. And this opportunity and challenge is what I wanted.”

 

 

It was a quick line, but Jim states he has been in contact with Sherrone. Maybe a few select coaches within Schembechler Hall were told which assistants he would pluck earlier than reported. Could he potentially be giving Sherrone guidance on our next OC/DC? I’d like to believe this to be the case, especially if we don’t automatically promote from within. I think we all *crosses fingers* would hope in the future for a pipeline of up and coming assistants from the Chargers to replicate what was done with Ravens staff. IMO he alluded to this above saying he thinks of Michigan and the Chargers as “one team.” 

 

Also, very interesting that he won’t commit to saying Minter and Jay are heading to Chargers but will comment that Herbert is. Obviously as reported they’re likely gone, it just seems that LA hasn’t officially announced the hires as of yet.

 

 

We’ll miss you coach. Onward.