Tony Alford sends farewell message to Ohio State fans amid reports of Michigan hiring

It appears that Ohio State running backs coach Tony Alford is, indeed, taking the same job with bitter rival Michigan. It’s at least clear that Alford is leaving the Buckeyes amid reports of his new job, penning a goodbye message that he shared on social media.

While the reception might be frosty due to Alford’s reported new destination for his career, he recruited and developed a strong crop of running backs during his nine-year stint at Ohio State. He coached under both Urban Meyer and Ryan Day.

“All of that being said,” Alford said at the end of the message, “as I will undoubtedly miss so many things about being a member of the Buckeye Football Family, I am excited about what the future holds as I embark on the next chapter of this journey. Best Wishes to all!!”

Buckeye Nation…. pic.twitter.com/R5a4fTMskL

— Coach Tony Alford (@CoachTonyAlford) March 13, 2024

He did not mention Michigan by name in the farewell message.

Along with thanking Meyer and then-Buckeyes AD Gene Smith for hiring him nearly a decade ago, Alford thanked various people around Columbus.

He also made a point to thank a specific group, too.

“Now, to the most important people, the players,” Alford said. “You guys have had such an amazing impact on me, not only as a coach, but also as a father and as a man. I thank you and your families so much for allowing met o be a small part of your journey. I can only hope that I made half as much an impact on you all as you have on me. Watching so many of you grow to become the men that you have become makes me so proud. Thank you guys and I hope and pray that all of your successes are as great as your dreams and goals.”

News that Alford could be headed to Michigan broke on Wednesday morning

The news was first reported by Matt Fortuna. A source indicated to On3 that Alford interviewed for the position and is the top target for the job.

Alford has spent the past nine seasons with the Buckeyes after spending the previous six at Notre Dame, and would be replacing former running backs coach Mike Hart after it was confirmed last week that he would not be returning to Ann Arbor for the 2024 season.

College football insider Pete Thamel added that Alford has already informed Ohio State officials that he will be leaving the program, expect to officially become the Wolverines next running backs coach.

New Michigan head coach Sherrone Moore was tasked with replacing a multitude of staff members this offseason following the departure of former head coach Jim Harbaugh to the Los Angeles Chargers. With Hart being the latest following his exit a little over a week before the Wolverines kick off spring practice.