Michigan football slammed for major possible NCAA violations

Ann Harbor, Michigan - Less than a week after losing in the College Football Playoff semifinal for the second-straight year, the bad news just won't let up for the Michigan Wolverines.

Shortly after dealing with a CFP semifinal loss to TCU, head coach Jim Harbaugh is facing possible violations for breaking NCAA recruiting rules in 2020.
Shortly after dealing with a CFP semifinal loss to TCU, head coach Jim Harbaugh is facing possible violations for breaking NCAA recruiting rules in 2020.  © Christian Petersen / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / Getty Images via AFP

If losing the opportunity to play in the National Championship wasn't a big enough blow for the Wolverines, an investigation for breaking league violations will be!

Michigan football is reportedly under an NCAA investigation for alleged violations during the Covid-19 recruiting dead period by several former and current coaches.

Rule violations under investigation include multiple coaches and head coach Jim Harbaugh communicating with 2023 recruits via text message earlier than allowed by the NCAA.

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Wolverine coaches have also allegedly met in-person with recruits and watched player workouts over a video feed – an NCAA Level II violation.

Also under investigation is the improper use of former defense analyst Ryan Osborn for on-field coaching duties.

Osborn has departed the Wolverines for the NFL's Baltimore Ravens, and Harbaugh acknowledged the mistake last fall. Michigan has since fixed the error.

Head coach Jim Harbaugh's penalty depends on Wolverines status

Head coach Jim Harbaugh of Michigan has previously stated to currently remain head coach of the Wolverines.
Head coach Jim Harbaugh of Michigan has previously stated to currently remain head coach of the Wolverines.  © CHRIS CODUTO / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / GETTY IMAGES VIA AFP

Michigan's investigation comes as Harbaugh's name has flooded the media with buzzing rumors concerning his future with the program.

NFL teams have reportedly expressed major interest in the veteran coach and on Thursday, Harbaugh released a statement that did nothing too for sure eliminate the possibility of him leaving Michigan after this season.

"As I stated in December, while no one knows what the future holds, I expect that I will be enthusiastically coaching Michigan in 2023," Harbaugh wrote.

As the Wolverines await for a notice of allegations by the NCAA, coach Harbaugh can face serious penalties that include a multi-game suspension if found at fault.

Under the NCAA, head coaches are responsible for all violations within their program regardless of knowledge, involvement, monitoring of staff, or promoting an atmosphere of compliance.

If Harbaugh is no longer coaching in Michigan or is out of college ball, he will not be subject to any potential sanctions.

Cover photo: Christian Petersen / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / Getty Images via AFP

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