Michigan football coach Jim Harbaugh has denied any knowledge or involvement in an alleged plot to steal opponents’ play-calling signals by sending representatives to their games. He expressed his willingness to fully cooperate with the NCAA’s investigation into these allegations.
Harbaugh made it clear in a statement that he was unaware of any illegal signal-stealing activities within the University of Michigan football program. He also stated that he had not directed any staff members or others to engage in off-campus scouting assignments that would violate the rules.
The Michigan Wolverines are being investigated for sign stealing.
Jim Harbaugh is gonna get fired right in time to get hired as the Patriots new head coach. pic.twitter.com/Us22oq6HWj
— Savage (@SavageSports_) October 19, 2023
The NCAA’s investigation reportedly encompasses allegations of similar violations by Michigan before the 2022 season. Despite these investigations, upcoming opponents have not expressed objections to playing against Michigan after being informed by the NCAA.
The NCAA itself has rules against in-person advance scouting of opponents and unsportsmanlike activities, even though there are no specific regulations against stealing signs. U.S. Integrity, a Las Vegas firm that monitors the betting market, issued an alert to its sportsbook clients about the Michigan controversy. Michigan State interim president Teresa Woodruff expressed concern about the allegations and stated that they would be handled through the NCAA’s processes.
Michigan issued a statement asserting that the investigation would not impact their upcoming game. Jim Harbaugh has already served a three-game suspension imposed by the university this season due to alleged recruiting violations during the COVID-19 dead period and for not cooperating with NCAA investigators. The university is still facing four Level II violations, which are considered less serious, stemming from these alleged violations, and the NCAA’s ruling on these matters is expected in 2024.
