Full Breakdown
Kerry Coombs Joins Michigan as Special Teams Coordinator
12/8/2025, 11:58:27 AM
Transition from Ohio State to Michigan
Kerry Coombs, a former assistant coach at Ohio State University, has been appointed as the new special teams coordinator for the University of Michigan football program. This decision comes after the dismissal of JB Brown, who previously held the position. Coombs, 64, brings over 40 years of coaching experience, having previously served as a defensive coordinator at Ohio State and most recently as special teams coordinator at the University of Cincinnati.
Coaching Background and Achievements
Coombs began his coaching career in Ohio high schools, achieving notable success at Colerain High School, where he led the team to a state championship in 2004. He transitioned to college football in 2008 at Cincinnati, where he quickly rose through the ranks to become assistant head coach and special teams coordinator. His first tenure at Ohio State spanned from 2012 to 2017, during which he developed several NFL first-round draft picks, including Marshon Lattimore and Denzel Ward. Coombs returned to Ohio State in 2020, contributing to the team’s Big Ten Championship and a College Football Playoff appearance, although his second stint ended with a loss of play-calling duties in 2021.
Official Statements and Responses
Michigan head coach Sherrone Moore expressed enthusiasm about Coombs' hiring, stating, “Kerry’s leadership of our special teams will be invaluable.” He highlighted Coombs' extensive experience in mentoring athletes and his proven track record in developing talent. Coombs’ appointment is seen as a strategic move to enhance Michigan's special teams, which struggled in the previous season.
Criticism and Opposition
Despite the excitement surrounding Coombs' hiring, some critics point to his mixed results during his second term at Ohio State, where he faced challenges in defensive performance. His inability to maintain play-calling duties and the subsequent struggles of the Buckeyes' defense have raised questions about his effectiveness in high-pressure situations.
What's Next for Michigan
Coombs faces the immediate challenge of improving Michigan's special teams, which ranked poorly in the Big Ten last season. The Wolverines will need to replace key players, including Dominic Zvada, the conference's kicker of the year in 2024. Coombs’ experience and previous success in special teams coaching will be crucial as he aims to elevate the unit's performance.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We’re thrilled to welcome him to our program,” — Sherrone Moore, Head Coach, Michigan Football
- “Kerry’s leadership of our special teams will be invaluable.” — Sherrone Moore, Head Coach, Michigan Football
- “a proven, exceptional football coach” — Sherrone Moore, Head Coach, Michigan Football
Kerry Coombs' transition from Ohio State to Michigan marks a significant moment in college football's storied rivalry, as he takes on a pivotal role in shaping the Wolverines' special teams strategy.
