Michigan Football Program Faces Potential Suspension for Sign-Stealing Investigation

The University of Michigan football program is in the midst of a major controversy as the NCAA has revealed its findings in the school’s sign-stealing investigation. The Big Ten conference is considering a multi-game suspension for coach Jim Harbaugh, and the school is gearing up for legal action, according to sources. However, the NCAA’s findings do not connect the sign-stealing to Harbaugh, which could hinder any potential lawsuit from the school and coach against the league.

Michigan Given Time to Respond Before Penalties

The school has been given a period of several days to mount a response to the conference before any penalties are levied. A resolution is expected by the end of the week, possibly as soon as Wednesday. The potential suspension of Harbaugh has drawn attention, especially since Michigan is currently 9-0 and ranked third in the College Football Playoff rankings. The upcoming game against Penn State this Saturday will be their toughest test so far.

Michigan Athletic Director Focused on Investigation

Michigan’s athletic director, Warde Manuel, is skipping out on his duties with the College Football Playoff committee this week in order to focus on the school’s response to the investigation. The sign-stealing scheme, which was first reported by Yahoo Sports, is believed to be a multi-year endeavor involving a former low-level analyst, Connor Stalions, who failed to cooperate with NCAA investigators and was dismissed. The school announced his resignation last Friday.

Potential Legal Action from Harbaugh and School

If Harbaugh is indeed suspended, it is expected that both the coach and the school will take legal action. Michigan officials have been considering legal options, pointing out that there is no documented evidence of Harbaugh’s knowledge of the rule-breaking activities. While NCAA bylaws hold head coaches responsible for their staff members’ actions, the Big Ten sportsmanship policy does not. This discrepancy could potentially be challenged in court.

Possible Suspension Rooted in Sportsmanship Policy

Any suspension imposed on Michigan would be based on the Big Ten conference’s sportsmanship policy, which allows disciplinary measures for violations of the “integrity of competition” in the “competitive arena.” The policy outlines standard and major actions, with major actions requiring approval from the executive board of presidents. The school has been given a deadline to file a response before any action is taken.

Prolonged Legal Battle Expected

The legal avenues available to the school and Harbaugh are clear, with the potential for seeking a temporary restraining order to prevent the suspension from taking effect. This could lead to a more permanent decision through a preliminary injunction. The ongoing NCAA investigation into recruiting violations during the COVID dead period may also be joined with the sign-stealing case, further complicating the matter and expanding potential penalties. Overall, the entire process is expected to last for months, if not years.