Michigan had 'evidence' fired assistant coach Matt Weiss 'inappropriately accessed' computer accounts
Michigan Wolverines football terminated the employment of former co-offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach Matt Weiss Jan. 20. Weiss was under investigation by the University of Michigan Police Department for alleged computer access crimes. He was on paid leave for over a week before his firing. New details have emerged surrounding the university’s decision to move on from Weiss, thanks to documents that were made public.
According to the Associated Press, athletic department official informed Weiss that the university had evidenced he “inappropriately accessed” computer accounts in a Jan. 19 memo. Per his termination letter, Weiss failed to show up to a meeting that day. The following day, he was let go.
“Because you did not attend this meeting and offer any additional information, we are making our decision based on the evidence that we have,” , executive associate athletic director and Chief of Staff for Michigan athletics Doug Gnodtke penned in the letter. “Based on the evidence it appears that you have inappropriately accessed the computer accounts of other individuals in violation of SPG 601.07. As a result, your appointment has been terminated with cause.”
RELATED
• ITF EXTRA: Legendary Michigan name set to join Jim Harbaugh’s staff?
• Michigan football players featured in Super Bowl LVII commercial
Michigan chose not to release the evidence that it shared with Weiss in a Jan. 19 memo, citing exemptions under state law.
“After a review of University policies, the athletic department has terminated the appointment of co-offensive coordinator/quarterbacks coach Matt Weiss,” Michigan athletic director Warde Manuel wrote in a Jan. 20 statement announcing Weiss’ firing. “Consistent with university policy, we will have no further comment on this personnel matter.”
“I am proud of the success we achieved over the last two seasons and grateful to all of the Michigan players, coaches, and staff,” Weiss said in his own statement at the time. “The potential of Team 144 knows no bounds. I have nothing but respect for the University of Michigan and the people who make it such a great place. I look forward to putting this matter behind me and returning my focus to the game that I love.”
Michigan replaced Weiss with quarterbacks coach Kirk Campbell, formerly an analyst on staff in 2022. Co-offensive coordinator Sherrone Moore appears to be the sole coordinator of the offense, though head coach Jim Harbaugh has not commented on any change in responsibility.
The Wolverines begin spring practices Feb. 20 and will conclude with an April 1 spring game.
