NCAA investigating University of Michigan football over sign-stealing allegations

The University of Michigan football team is currently under investigation by the NCAA for alleged sign-stealing, as announced by the school and the Big Ten Conference on Thursday.

‘Sign-stealing,’ which involves gathering information on the signs used by a team to call offensive and defensive plays, is not explicitly prohibited by NCAA rules unless it involves intercepting electronic communication during a game. However, in-person scouting is expressly outlawed.

According to NCAA Bylaw 11.6.1, it is prohibited to engage in off-campus, in-person scouting of future opponents within the same season.

On Wednesday, both the university and the Big Ten Conference were informed of the investigation, as stated in a statement released by the conference on Thursday.

“The Big Ten Conference places great importance on maintaining the integrity of competition and will closely monitor the ongoing investigation,” the statement continued.

The Big Ten Conference also informed Michigan State University (MSU), Michigan’s traditional rivals whom they will face on Saturday, along with other future opponents, about the investigation.

Jim Harbaugh, the head coach of the Wolverines, firmly denied the allegations of illegal sign-stealing by the program. He stated that he and his coaching staff will fully cooperate with the investigation.

“I do not tolerate or condone any illegal activity or violation of NCAA rules,” Harbaugh said. “Throughout my career, regardless of the program or organization I have led, we have always strictly followed the rules in our scouting of opponents.”

The NCAA has reportedly reached out to Michigan State University on Wednesday, presenting what they consider to be credible evidence of the Wolverines stealing signs from opposing coaches during this season.

The league declined to comment further on the ongoing investigation but emphasized its commitment to collaborating with member schools and conferences to ensure fair competition.

Ahead of Saturday’s game for the Paul Bunyan Trophy, Teresa Woodruff, the interim president of MSU football, also issued a statement in response to the investigation.

“We are disappointed to hear about the NCAA investigation and we echo the Big Ten Conference’s dedication to maintaining integrity,” she said. “While the allegations are concerning, they will be addressed through the proper NCAA procedures.

“MSU does not have any additional comments on this matter. Our focus is on supporting our team and preparing our campus for a safe game-day environment.”

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