In Ann Arbor, challenges continue for the University of Michigan’s football program as the NCAA investigates allegations surrounding a sign-stealing scheme. Recently, Big Ten commissioner Tony Petitti sent a letter to the NCAA Committee on Infractions suggesting that Michigan should not face further sanctions due to the situation. This information comes from two people familiar with the matter who requested anonymity since the investigation is ongoing.
Petitti was unable to attend a hearing last month due to recovering from hip surgery but shared his letter at that time. The NCAA initially alleged that current head coach Sherrone Moore violated rules during his tenure as an assistant under former head coach Jim Harbaugh. Harbaugh, who recently left to coach in the NFL for the Los Angeles Chargers after winning the national championship, served a three-game suspension in exchange for the Big Ten dropping its investigation into the allegations.
The NCAA’s investigation highlighted accusations that Moore deleted text messages related to the sign-stealing case before they were recovered by the NCAA. Despite these allegations, Moore has stated his willingness to cooperate with the investigation. The scandal first came to light at the start of the 2023 season, tied to former low-level staffer Connor Stalions, who has been accused of running a robust sign-stealing operation. He was suspended by the university and subsequently resigned.
Reports indicate that Michigan is preparing to suspend Moore for two games next season as a self-imposed sanction. The NCAA will determine if this action is sufficient in response to claims that he did not fully cooperate with the investigation. On average, the NCAA takes around three months to reach a conclusion in contested cases.
The Wolverines are set to begin their season at home against New Mexico State on August 30 and will face Oklahoma on September 6. Harbaugh’s suspension led to plenty of controversy, especially as Michigan sought an injunction in court to challenge the decision. The coaching community has been critical of the NCAA’s approach, urging punishment for Harbaugh before the investigation concluded.
Additionally, the NCAA has previously placed Michigan on probation and assessed fines based on different recruiting issues. The ongoing circumstances underscore the scrutiny surrounding Michigan’s football program as it prepares for the upcoming season.
