The University of Michigan and football coach Sherrone Moore have officially withdrawn their appeal against penalties imposed by the NCAA related to a sign-stealing scandal. The decision follows a lengthy investigation that has overshadowed the Wolverines, particularly during their successful run to the national championship in the 2023 season.
In a statement released by the university, officials noted, “After careful consideration of the prolonged impact of an appeal on Michigan and our student athletes, we have withdrawn our appeal of the NCAA’s infractions decision and penalties.”
The NCAA’s sanctions, announced in August, included a fine expected to exceed $20 million and a suspension for Moore that extends to the opening game of the 2026 season. Michigan’s football program, currently ranked 21st with a record of 6-2 and 4-1 in the Big Ten, is set to host Purdue (2-6, 0-5) this Saturday.
Moore initially withdrew his appeal on September 29, after serving a self-imposed two-game suspension. The university followed suit and officially dropped its appeal on October 6.
Details of the NCAA Sanctions
The NCAA highlighted “overwhelming” evidence of a cover-up by Michigan’s staff, suggesting there were grounds for a multiyear postseason ban. However, the governing body decided against such severe measures, stating that a two-year ban “would unfairly penalize student-athletes for the actions of coaches and staff” who are no longer part of the program.
In addition to the hefty financial penalties, the Wolverines face a 25% reduction in official recruiting visits this season and a 14-week ban on recruiting communications during their four-year probation period. These restrictions will significantly impact the program’s recruiting capabilities.
Michigan’s initial response criticized the NCAA for alleged misinterpretations of its bylaws, claiming the governing body reached conclusions that were contrary to the available evidence.
Consequences for Key Individuals
Former Michigan quarterback and now head coach of the NFL’s Los Angeles Chargers, Jim Harbaugh, is under a 10-year show-cause order following the expiration of a previous four-year order on August 7, 2028. Harbaugh has consistently denied any knowledge of the sign-stealing operation.
The operative behind the scheme, former staff member Connor Stalions, received an eight-year show-cause order, effectively barring him from college athletics for that duration. Stalions has claimed extensive knowledge of opponents’ signals and participated in a Netflix documentary, stating, “If I’m a bad guy, then everyone in football is a bad guy.” Notably, he did not cooperate with the NCAA investigation.
The NCAA prohibits the use of scouts at in-season opponents’ games and restricts electronic equipment for recording signals. While stealing signs is not explicitly against NCAA rules, the methods employed by Stalions were deemed elaborate and in violation of established guidelines.
The fallout from this scandal continues to ripple through the Michigan football program, affecting not only current operations but also its future in collegiate athletics. As the Wolverines prepare for their next game, the implications of the NCAA’s ruling remain a pressing concern for players, coaches, and fans alike.
