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The Big Ten has officially informed Michigan that it could face disciplinary action, according to a statement from a Michigan official to ESPN.
Sportsmanship Policy and NCAA Investigation
This notice is part of the Big Ten’s sportsmanship policy, which requires giving a heads-up when an institution is likely to face disciplinary action. The NCAA is investigating Michigan for illegal off-campus scouting and signal stealing, and the Big Ten’s commissioner, Tony Petitti, has the authority to enforce discipline under the sportsmanship policy before the lengthy NCAA investigative process is complete.
The Big Ten’s letter mentions evidence of illegal signal stealing, which goes against the principles of sportsmanship policy and compromises competitive integrity.
Michigan’s Response Deadline
Michigan has until Wednesday to respond to the Big Ten. Athletic director Warde Manuel, in response, stated he won’t travel to Texas for College Football Playoff selection committee meetings. He intends to focus on important matters related to the ongoing football program investigation.
Meeting Between Petitti and Michigan President Ono
Petitti met with Michigan President Santa Ono in Ann Arbor to review information obtained from the NCAA about Michigan’s alleged signal-stealing operation. A Michigan analyst believed to be central to the NCAA’s investigation, Connor Stalions, resigned after initially being suspended with pay.
Possible Discipline for Coach Jim Harbaugh
Possible Big Ten discipline for Michigan may involve suspending coach Jim Harbaugh, rather than imposing team-related penalties, according to sources. The league’s sportsmanship policy allows for a two-game suspension and a $10,000 fine as standard discipline. Any greater discipline would require approval from the joint group executive committee, which includes officials from several Big Ten schools.
If the Big Ten imposes discipline, Michigan and Harbaugh are expected to explore legal options to challenge the league’s decision. Although the sportsmanship policy grants Petitti the authority to determine offensive actions, the Big Ten’s handbook also notes that in NCAA-initiated cases, additional penalties may be imposed by the compliance and reinstatement committee, after NCAA action.
A source told ESPN, “We’re going to explore every option to ensure Michigan is treated fairly.”
Emphasis on Due Process and Fair Investigations
Before their meeting, Ono had already emailed Petitti, urging respect for due process and the ongoing NCAA investigation. Ono emphasized the importance of conducting fair investigations and basing conclusions on facts, particularly when all key facts are unknown. He stressed the significance of due process in protecting the reputation and livelihoods of coaches, students, and programs.
“We, like any other member of the Big Ten, deserve nothing less. Our students, coaches, and program are entitled to a fair, deliberate, thoughtful process.”
