Michigan's Harbaugh Suspended Amid Sign-Stealing Scandal

Despite the ongoing scandal, Harbaugh's standing strengthens among fans and university as offensive coordinator Sherrone Moore steps in for the upcoming game against Ohio State.

Michigan's head coach Jim Harbaugh has been suspended for half of the season due to two unrelated suspensions. The first one was a self-imposed punishment by Michigan in response to an NCAA investigation into prospect visits that violated pandemic restrictions. The second suspension is due to a sign-stealing scandal involving a Wolverines support staffer named Connor Stalions.
The NCAA and Big Ten are currently investigating the extent of collaboration between Stalions and members of Michigan's staff. Evidence presented last week suggests that a booster partially funded Stalions's operation and that linebackers coach Chris Partridge aided in the destruction of evidence. Partridge was fired by the school.
The Big Ten, under pressure from the other 13 schools in the conference, suspended Harbaugh for the final three games of the 2023 regular season, citing its 'sportsmanship policy'. This is the first time the policy has been used in this way. Harbaugh will miss the upcoming game against Ohio State, a historic rivalry game with significant playoff implications.
Despite the scandal, Harbaugh's standing appears to have strengthened among Michigan fans and the university. Many have rallied to his side in public discourse, arguing that the Big Ten lacked a rules-based reason to punish Harbaugh in the manner it did.
Offensive coordinator Sherrone Moore will be the acting coach for the game against Ohio State. Moore's performance in this role could have significant implications for his future, as well as the future of Michigan's football program, particularly given the uncertainty surrounding Harbaugh's status for 2024 and beyond.