Sources: Michigan's Head Football Coach Rich Rodriguez Will Be Fired

SOUTHFIELD, Mich. (WJBK) - Sources told FOX 2's Ryan Ermanni Tuesday that the University of Michigan has decided to fire football coach Rich Rodriguez. There is no official word yet, but we are told it is no longer a matter of "if" but "when", and that will likely be Wednesday.

1/05/2011 @ 11:00 AM - Update: The Detroit News reports that Rodriguez is now fired. Fox 2 has learned there will be a press conference held by Michigan Athletic Director David Brandon at 12:30 p.m. Watch it live on myFOXDetroit.com .

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This comes just three days after his team suffered the worst bowl loss in school history, a 52-14 trouncing at the hands of Mississippi State in the Gator Bowl.

The university is categorically denying this report and released the following statement.

"Everything that is being reported is media speculation at this point. The definitive voice on this matter is Dave Brandon, and he has not and will not speak publicly until a final decision has been made."

Rodriguez and Brandon met Tuesday for reportedly over four hours at Brandon's house.

Players will be meeting with either Rodriguez and/or Brandon Wednesday at 4:00 p.m.

Ryan Ermanni Talks During FOX 2 News

Rodriguez was 15-22 during three seasons in Ann Arbor. He lost a school-record nine games in his debut with the Wolverines two years ago, was 5-7 after starting 4-0 last season and turned a 5-0 start into a 7-5 finish this fall.

The Wolverines were also 1-10 against ranked teams, 0-3 against rivals Michigan State and Ohio State and 1-2 against Wisconsin during the past three seaons.

Rumors have swirled that Stanford's Jim Harbaugh, a former Wolverine quarterback, and San Diego States' Brady Hoke, a former U-M coach, are on the list of possible candidates to replace Rodriguez.

Reports Tuesday said Harbaugh's return to Michigan, however, is highly unlikely. He is reportedly deciding on staying at Stanford or pursuing a heading coaching position in the NFL.

FOX 2 Sports Director Dan Miller joined Huel Perkins to talk about Harbaugh and Hoke.  Click on the second video in the player above to watch their interview.

Simon Shaykhet talked to students and U of M fans on campus.  To see how they're reacting in Ann Arbor, click on the 3rd video in the player.