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Each passing update on the ongoing NCAA investigation appears to spell bad news for Jim Harbaugh and the Michigan Wolverines.
Harbaugh and company are alleged to have operated a three-year espionage program in order to steal signs from opposing teams.
The Wolverines are a combined 33-3 since the alleged spying began.
Harbaugh, of course, denies the allegations.
Jim Harbaugh statement pic.twitter.com/LX1C4twrMM
— Clayton Sayfie (@CSayf23) October 19, 2023
“I want to make it clear that I, and my staff, will fully cooperate with the investigation into this matter,” Harbaugh said a week ago. “I do not have any knowledge or information regarding the University of Michigan football program illegally stealing signals, nor have I directed any staff member or others to participate in an off-campus scouting assignment. I have no awareness of anyone on our staff having done that or having directed that action. I do not condone or tolerate anyone doing anything illegal or against NCAA rules.
“No matter what program or organization that I have led throughout my career, my instructions and awareness of how we scout opponents have always been firmly within the rules. Pursuant to NCAA rules, I will not be able to comment further while this investigation takes place.”
NCAA Reportedly On Campus At Michigan For Sign Stealing Investigation
But the evidence is mounting against him and the program, and ESPN’s Pete Thamel reports that the NCAA is literally closing in.
“An NCAA enforcement staff has been at the University of Michigan this week to look into the sign-stealing probe,” Thamel reports. “…The arrival of NCAA enforcement just a week after the investigation formally launched is an indication of the priority the case has taken.”
Michigan staffer Connor Stalions allegedly led the program. The Wolverines reportedly stole signs from 12 of the 13 other Big Ten schools, as well as potential College Football Playoff opponents.
Clearly the NCAA means business with this investigation. Which could well spell trouble for Harbaugh and his program.