NCAA Issues Rare Statement Regarding Ongoing Jim Harbaugh Case

The Michigan coach is still under investigation despite avoiding suspension.

In a rare statement acknowledging an ongoing investigation, the NCAA addressed Jim Harbaugh’s open infractions case on Saturday following the news that the Michigan coach is no longer facing a suspension.

NCAA vice president for hearing operations Derrick Crawford shared a statement on the heels of reports regarding Harbaugh avoiding a previously agreed to four-game suspension after his deal with the NCAA was denied by the Committee on Infractions.

In regards to the failed agreement, Crawford noted that such decisions can be made when an agreement is “not in the best interests of the Association or the penalties are not reasonable.” He also stated the alleged violations are about “impermissible coaching activities.”

“The Michigan infractions case is related to impermissible on and off-campus recruiting during the COVID-19 dead period and impermissible coaching activities, not a cheeseburger. It is not uncommon for the COI to seek clarification on key facts prior to accepting. The COI may also reject an NR (negotiated resolution) if it determines that the agreement is not in the best interests of the Association or the penalties are not reasonable. If the involved parties cannot resolve a case through the negotiated resolution process, it may proceed to a hearing, but the committee believes cooperation is the best avenue to quickly resolve issues.”

According to Sports Illustrated’s Pat Forde, Harbaugh’s case is now expected to move forward with a hearing that “will delay a final ruling and potential appeals until after the 2023 season.” Forde also noted the delay could impact, and possibly worsen, the sanctions levied against Harbaugh and three other Michigan staffers.

Michigan is set to open its season at home against East Carolina on Sept. 2, followed by matchups against UNLV, Bowling Green and Rutgers, also in Ann Arbor.