Tony Alford, a run-game coordinator and running backs coach, joins Michigan from rival Ohio State.

(AP) ANN ARBOR, Mich. On Wednesday, Michigan hired Tony Alford, a run-game coordinator and running backs coach, from rival Ohio State.

Sherrone Moore, the coach of the Wolverines, made a daring choice when assembling his first staff following Jim Harbaugh’s return to the NFL by bringing on one of Ryan Day’s top assistants from the Buckeyes.

In a statement, Moore stated, “Tony is an exceptional running backs coach who is an outstanding mentor and example for young men in all aspects of football and life.”

Alford takes over for Mike Hart, the former Michigan standout who led the running backs for three seasons under Harbaugh. Hart was contacted in order to request a comment.

Alford thanked Ohio State and its supporters for nine “amazing” years in a social media statement, but he did not say what will happen next.

Alford wrote, “All that being said, I am excited about what the future holds as I embark on this next chapter of my journey, even though I will undoubtedly miss so many things about being a member of the Buckeye Football Family.”

Alford was hired at Ohio State in 2015 after leaving Notre Dame as the running backs coach and assistant head coach. A little over a year ago, Day gave Alford a promotion to run-game coordinator.

Two months ago, Harbaugh left to take the helm of the Los Angeles Chargers after leading the Wolverines to their first national championship since 1997. He urged Warde Manuel, the athletic director, to appoint Moore as Harbaugh’s offensive coordinator.