Jim Harbaugh issued a statement denying any knowledge of Michigan’s alleged in-person scouting operation.
ESPN reported Sunday that the NCAA sent Michigan a notice of allegations pertaining to last year’s sign-stealing scandal. Harbaugh was accused of committing a Level I violation for refusing to allow the NCAA access to his phone records.
Courtesy of The Athletic’s Daniel Popper , Harbaugh maintained his innocence on Monday.
“Never lie. Never cheat. Never steal. I was raised with that lesson. I have raised my family on that lesson. I have preached that lesson to the teams I’ve coached,” Harbaugh said.
“No one’s perfect. If you stumble, you apologize and you make it right. Today, I do not apologize. I did not participate, was not aware nor complicit in those said allegations. So for, it’s back to work and attacking with an enthusiasm unknown to mankind.”
Harbaugh served two separate three-game suspensions during the 2023 season. Before the Big Ten punished him for the sign-stealing scandal, he opened the season away from the team because of recruiting violations allegedly committed in 2020.
In another notice of allegations regarding those accusations, the NCAA said Harbaugh could face a Level I violation for “unethical or dishonest conduct and a failure to cooperate” in an investigation.
According to ESPN, Harbaugh could receive a “show-cause” restriction if he returns to college football to prevent him from avoiding discipline. For now, he sidestepped any possible ramifications by leaving Michigan to become head coach for the Los Angeles Chargers.
Harbaugh’s replacement, Sherrone Moore, could be punished for allegedly deleting text messages sent to former staffer Connor Stalions.
Related: ESPN Reporter Predicts Ultimate Punishment For Michigan’s Sherrone Moore