November 7th, 2025 11:00am
Northern Michigan University Director of Athletics Rick Comley announced that Shane Richardson has resigned his position as head football coach of the Wildcats. No details regarding the resignation were disclosed, however, the move follows news from Monday of this week confirming Richardson and offensive line coach Joe Gatz had been placed on administrative leave. The University declined to provide details for the leave, stating that personnel matters will remain private.
Richardson was nearing the close of his third season as head coach of his alma mater. The Wildcats were winless in 2023 and 2024 but showed noticeable improvement in 2025, highlighted by a win at Roosevelt on Oct. 18.
Associate head coach and offensive coordinator Billy Lindquist will complete the season as interim head coach. The Wildcats have two games remaining. The team travels to Davenport this weekend and then concludes the season at home against Wayne State. Friday's announcement from NMU athletics also notes that the administraive leave for assistant coach Joe Gatz has been lifted and he rejoins the team as they prepare for this weekend's game.
The search for a new head coach will begin immediately.