In the midst of a sign-stealing controversy, the Big Ten appears to be ready to take action against the University of Michigan.
However, Michigan is now urging the conference to exercise patience and await the conclusion of the ongoing NCAA investigation.
Michigan President, Santa Ono, recently sent an email to Big Ten Commissioner, Tony Petitti, emphasizing the importance of respecting due process.
“It’s precisely at these times — when all key facts are not known but others are all too comfortable offering strongly held opinions — that it is essential for everyone to ensure that investigations are conducted fairly and that conclusions are based on what actually happened,” Ono wrote, per Rittenberg. “The reputation and livelihoods of coaches, students, and programs cannot be sacrificed in a rush to judgment, no matter how many and how loudly people protest otherwise. Due process matters. . . . We, as would any other member of the Big10, deserve nothing less. Our students, our coaches, our program — all are entitled to a fair, deliberate, thoughtful process.”
Michigan wants the Big Ten to back off and wait for the outcome of the NCAA investigation. https://t.co/mb9AZGPZ2l
— ProFootballTalk (@ProFootballTalk) November 4, 2023
This request comes at a time when other Big Ten schools are pressuring the conference to swiftly address the situation, fearing that the NCAA investigation will drag on for too long.
Time is undoubtedly a crucial factor in this case. If Michigan is found guilty of continuous rule violations, it is essential that the investigation proceed promptly and appropriate punishment be enforced.
However, Michigan has a vested interest in prolonging the process, particularly as the school aims for a potential berth in the NCAA playoff and a shot at the national championship.
The victory, even if it eventually gets vacated, cannot erase the experience of winning it. If the allegations against Michigan are proven true, both the Big Ten and the NCAA should intervene and consider potentially nullifying the school’s current season, especially if any victories were tainted by cheating prior to the sign-stealing issue coming to light.
