After weeks of controversy surrounding the sign-stealing scandal, Michigan has delivered its formal response to the Big Ten regarding potential disciplinary actions. The university has strongly advised Big Ten Commissioner Tony Petitti against taking punitive measures against their head coach, Jim Harbaugh, asserting that such actions would constitute an abuse of the commissioner’s authority.
In a comprehensive 10-page letter addressed to the conference, Michigan argues that the conference should exercise caution when setting precedents, considering the possibility of widespread practices such as in-person scouting and collusion among opponents. They emphasize that these actions might be more common than initially thought.
Michigan warned the Big Ten commissioner about overstepping his authority and rushing to judgment as the conference considers disciplining the program and coach Jim Harbaugh for a scouting and sign-stealing scheme. by @LarryLage with an assist from me.https://t.co/F1mdU4NWWG
— Ralph D. Russo (@ralphDrussoAP) November 9, 2023
Michigan’s standpoint hinges on the fact that the individual responsible for the sign-stealing, former staff member Connor Stalions, is no longer associated with the football program. They maintain that Stalions was the sole person with knowledge of the sign-stealing activities. The university contends that it would be unjust to penalize Coach Harbaugh or any of the current players and coaches.
Stalions, through his legal representative, has asserted that no other Michigan staff members instructed him to violate NCAA scouting regulations, as he is alleged to have done.
Supporters of the Michigan program stress that the university is merely seeking due process in the investigation, aiming for a fair and just assessment of the situation. Michigan’s formal statement aligns with this perspective as they caution Commissioner Petitti and the Big Ten against unwarranted actions.