Last month, reports surfaced that Michigan coach Jim Harbaugh had tentatively agreed to a four-game suspension from the NCAA, stemming from an investigation into Level II violations.
But Saturday afternoon,
Yahoo Sports reported that talks between the two parties had broken down, and that Harbaugh is no longer expected to be suspended at all during the 2023 season, let alone for four games.
"Harbaugh and the NCAA had come to a tentative resolution that would see the coach serve a four-game suspension to begin the 2023 season," Yahoo wrote. "A number of former assistants were also sanctioned. The deal still needed approval from the NCAA’s Committee on Infractions. Many believed that would be a formality.
"However, hurdles arose and the deal is now off, sources said."
After the report's release, the NCAA commented to Yahoo Sports.
"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 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 the report, Michigan was initially facing four Level II infractions, typically seen as minor with low punishments. But the NCAA alleges that Harbaugh "was not forthcoming with investigators," which was grounds for a Level I violation — typically resulting in a stiffer penalty.
In July, multiple outlets reported that Michigan had agreed to a four-game suspension for Harbaugh, as well as one-game suspensions for offensive coordinator Sherrone Moore and tight ends coach Grant Newsome. Now, however, the violations will move further into the NCAA's disciplinary system, likely pushing any resolution until after the 2023 season was completed.
Michigan coaches and administrators have yet to comment publicly on anything related to the investigation.
The Wolverines, who began fall camp August 2, will open the season at home against East Carolina Sept. 2.