The NCAA is reportedly finalizing its investigation into Michigan’s sign-stealing scandal.
According to The Wolverine’s Chris Balas , the NCAA could issue a Notice of Allegations against Michigan’s football program as early as Tuesday. The school is expected to receive Level I violations for its impermissible in-person scouting operation.
Sources told Balas that the NCAA could attempt to ban Michigan for one or two postseasons. However, that punishment likely wouldn’t go into effect this season since Michigan could file an appeal that the NCAA’s Committee on Infractions wouldn’t hear until next year.
The NCAA isn’t expected to vacate Michigan’s national title or any wins.
Two former coaches could receive Level II violations for their role in a scouting ring led by Connor Stalions, who resigned last year. Jim Harbaugh, the head coach for the last nine seasons, left to rejoin the NFL this offseason. He’s denied knowledge of any violations.
Stalions purchased tickets to games featuring future opponents, and Michigan allegedly sent staffers to record their play signals. While sign-stealing isn’t illegal in all circumstances, NCAA teams can’t scout other clubs in person.
Before the NCAA conducted its investigation, the Big Ten suspended Harbaugh for three games to close the regular season. The Wolverines won them all behind Sherrone Moore, who parlayed the successful audition into a head coaching job.
“As far as the NCAA, I’m not at liberty to comment about that,” Moore said of the investigation at the Big Ten Media Days last week. “We’re just really worried about what we have going on with our team and our football program, and we’ll go from there.”
Related: Sherrone Moore Declines Comment On NCAA Investigation Into Michigan