Michigan football coach Jim Harbaugh is facing a four-game suspension to start the 2023 season, according to multiple reports. The suspension is part of a negotiated resolution between the NCAA and the school over recruiting violations and false statements to NCAA investigators.
Harbaugh and other Michigan staffers, including offensive coordinator Sherrone Moore, tight ends coach Grant Newsome and former defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald, allegedly had impermissible contacts and benefits with prospects during the COVID-19 dead period in 2020. Harbaugh is also accused of lying to NCAA investigators in initial interviews about the violations.
The negotiated resolution has been submitted to the NCAA Committee on Infractions for approval or rejection, sources told Sports Illustrated. The committee could adjust the penalty or call for a full hearing, which would extend the process several months. However, sources said that is not a likely outcome.
Harbaugh’s status should be clarified before the Wolverines open the season against East Carolina on Sept. 2. With or without Harbaugh, Michigan figures to be a heavy favorite in its first four games against ECU, UNLV, Bowling Green and Rutgers. The Wolverines are expected to begin the season ranked in the top five nationally.
Tom Mars, a high-profile attorney in the college sports space, is representing Harbaugh in the case. He issued a comment to SI: “We are continuing to work cooperatively with the NCAA staff on an enforcement matter. At this time, we are not allowed to comment on possible penalties or other aspects of the matter.”
Multiple NCAA representatives also declined to comment.
