Ann Arbor, Michigan – Michigan officials, including lawyers and football coaches, are gearing up for a two-day Committee on Infractions (COI) hearing that is set to begin on Friday. This hearing comes after an investigation into an alleged illegal scouting and sign-stealing scheme that began on October 19, 2023. The outcome of this process is expected to reveal any potential punishments within the next eight to twelve weeks.
Though COI hearings used to be more common, the NCAA has shifted towards negotiated resolutions recently, making formal hearings less frequent. This will be the first such hearing since Tennessee’s in 2023. Legal experts have weighed in on the COI process, stating it’s not a courtroom setting. There will be no new testimony, and lawyers won’t cross-examine witnesses. Instead, it provides both sides a chance to share their findings in a more informal atmosphere.
One attorney, Clinton Speegle, who has experience in COI hearings, mentioned that “everybody walks away ideally with the feeling that I was heard” after presenting their case. The NCAA’s enforcement staff, responsible for investigating cases like this, operates somewhat secretively. Once the hearing ends, both parties have to wait for the NCAA to finalize any penalties.
Michigan faces a total of eleven allegations, with six categorized as Level I violations, the most severe type. Central to this case is coach Sherrone Moore, who reportedly deleted text messages with a staffer involved in the scandal. As a result, Moore could face significant penalties, especially since he has previously negotiated a suspension for other infractions.
Michigan contends against the NCAA’s findings, arguing that the organization is “overreaching” and requesting the case be treated as Level II infractions instead of Level I. Various lawyers familiar with NCAA cases indicate that the upcoming hearing is a priority, with potential consequences ranging from suspensions to postseason bans that might extend from one to three years.
As everyone prepares for this significant event, Michigan’s legal team is performing mock hearings to ensure they are as prepared as possible. Individuals attending include the school’s interim president and athletic director, alongside those directly implicated in the charges. The formal aspect of the hearing requires all involved to maintain a cordial yet professional approach, as the university will present its case while the NCAA enforcement staff outlines their findings.
Once the COI makes its decision, the details on penalties will be released, which could involve suspensions or other punitive measures. Those representing Michigan acknowledge the unpredictability of the outcomes, with factors such as cooperation from the university playing a role in the final decision.
The stakes are high for everyone involved as the fallout from this investigation continues to unfold. All eyes are on this historic hearing as it could shape the immediate future of Michigan football.
