Report: Jim Harbaugh will likely serve a short suspension for NCAA violations
As previously reported, Michigan has been negotiating with the NCAA over potential punishment for Jim Harbaugh over alleged recruiting violations. Now, a report has emerged that they are working toward a four-game suspension for the coach, as well as punishment for a few Michigan assistants.
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Yahoo.com reports the penalties stem from alleged false statements he originally made to investigators in a case of the alleged “cover-up” being worse than the crime.
As reported here months ago, the university stood behind Harbaugh after he acknowledged wrongdoing over contact with committed recruits during a COVID-related dead period. Sources said he had lunch with them when they stopped by for an impromptu visit. He was also cited for allowing an analyst to perform some coaching duties on the field and having some coaches watch players work out during Zoom meetings.
None of these would likely have resulted in major punishment.
However, Harbaugh denies knowingly lying to the NCAA, which Yahoo’s Dan Wetzel reported has become a sticking point in resolving the case. As we’d reported, Harbaugh was looking at a possible 6-game suspension. Sources told TheWolverine.com that was expected to be reduced significantly — however, it appears the NCAA won’t budge unless Harbaugh admits being dishonest to investigators.
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Nobody has confirmed whether Harbaugh has gone that route. He reportedly initially refused to admit that he lied to NCAA staff, saying he “didn’t recall” the events.
Yahoo reports, “The agreement is an initial version of the negotiated resolution and is not yet finalized. The resolution must now be approved by the NCAA Committee on Infractions, which could take several days if not weeks. The committee [also] has authority to adjust penalties.”
If enacted, Harbaugh would miss games with ECU, UNLV, and Bowling Green in addition to the Big Ten home opener against Rutgers. Yahoo also reports that former defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald, now the defensive coordinator for John Harbaugh’s Baltimore Ravens, is expected to receive a one-year show-cause penalty, while offensive coordinator Sherrone Moore and tight ends coach Grant Newsome are also expected to receive sanctions.
Watch for more on these developments in the hours and days to come …
