The college football world was shaken days ago after harsh sanctions were handed down to the Michigan Wolverines and several individuals involved at the time — including former head coach Jim Harbaugh. The signal-stealing controversy left a lasting impact, with some of those implicated now facing significant penalties, both financial and competitive.
Now the head coach of the Chargers, Harbaugh was the one who led the Wolverines to a National Championship Game during that period. At the time, he worked closely with Sherrone Moore — now Michigan’s current HC — as part of his coaching staff.
As his team continues preparations for the upcoming NFL season, Harbaugh was approached by the media this past weekend and asked about the recent sanctions. His response was brief.
“Like I said last year, I’m not engaging. I’m done engaging,” per Kris Rhim of ESPN.
What is the Michigan scandal all about?
The Michigan Wolverines football program is now facing the full force of sanctions following its investigation into illegal recruiting and a major sign-stealing scandal. The ruling, which the school has stated it will appeal, includes a significant multi-million dollar fine, as well as probation for four years.
The NCAA also issued a lengthy show-cause order for former head coach Jim Harbaugh, which, when combined with a previous penalty, effectively bans him from college football until at least 2038. Additionally, current head coach Sherrone Moore has been suspended for three games, one more than the school had self-imposed.
While the team avoided a postseason ban, the penalties cast a long shadow over the program’s recent championship, with the NCAA citing overwhelming evidence of a cover-up and a contentious relationship with its compliance office under Harbaugh’s leadership.