The University of Michigan football program has been hit with a range of penalties following an agreement with the NCAA enforcement staff. The violations, which involve recruiting violations and coaching activities by noncoaching staff members, have resulted in the team being placed on a three-year probationary period, facing recruiting restrictions, and being required to pay a fine.
As part of the agreement, a one-year show-cause order has been issued for individuals involved in the violations, while former coach Jim Harbaugh’s case will be considered separately by the Committee on Infractions. Surprisingly, Harbaugh and his attorney were not aware of the agreement until media reports surfaced.
The violations include impermissible recruiting contacts during a COVID-19 dead period, impermissible tryouts, and exceeding the countable coaches limit. The university’s athletic director expressed relief at reaching a resolution and being able to move forward.
While staff members involved in the violations can begin serving their penalties, there are still contested portions of the case that are awaiting a final decision. However, there will be no further game restrictions for remaining staff members.
Past self-imposed penalties include suspensions for coach Sherrone Moore and Harbaugh. The university has also admitted to a head coach responsibility violation and a failure to cooperate with the investigation.
The Committee’s final decision, including potential violations and penalties for Harbaugh, are still pending. In addition, a separate NCAA investigation into an off-campus sign-stealing system led by a former staffer is ongoing but is unrelated to the current case that has resulted in announced penalties.
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