Jon "JR" Rhoades 
The back of Michigan's large screen may be removing their accomplishments soon.
The University of Michigan’s football program is facing a serious Notice of Allegations from the NCAA as reported by Nicole Auerbach. Questions about what exactly is in the Notice of Allegations from the NCAA have been raised. Here’s a summary of the key points I believe are in the NOA based on confirmed reporting:
1. Sherrone Moore Allegations
Sherrone Moore, who recently stepped into the role of Michigan’s head coach, is at the center of serious allegations. Moore is accused of deleting 52 text messages exchanged with former staffer Connor Stalions on the same day that reports of Stalions’ signal-stealing activities became public. Although these messages were later recovered and provided to the NCAA, Moore is still charged with a Level 2 violation. His previous involvement in recruiting violations during the COVID-19 dead period further complicates his situation, leading to his classification as a “repeat violator.”
2. Jim Harbaugh Allegations
Jim Harbaugh, the former head coach of Michigan, is also under scrutiny. The NCAA accuses Harbaugh of failing to cooperate with their investigation by refusing to provide relevant messages and phone records. While there’s no direct evidence linking Harbaugh to the illegal scouting operation, his failure to recognize or address clear “red flags” has drawn significant criticism. If Harbaugh returns to college sports, he could face a “show-cause” penalty, adding to his reputation as a repeat violator.
3. Connor Stalions Scouting Operation
The allegations against Connor Stalions are perhaps the most detailed and damning. Stalions is accused of orchestrating a comprehensive scheme to scout future opponents by purchasing game tickets and directing others to record play-calling signals. This operation reportedly involved at least 13 opponents over 58 occasions from 2021 to 2023. In one notable instance, Stalions allegedly disguised himself as a member of Central Michigan’s coaching staff during a game against Michigan State. His refusal to cooperate with the NCAA investigation, including allegedly removing hard drives, further exacerbates the situation.
4. Institutional Allegations
Michigan as an institution is facing a Level 1 violation due to a “pattern of noncompliance” within its football program, as well as efforts to obstruct the NCAA’s investigation. While it has not been explicitly confirmed, this allegation resembles the NCAA’s severe “Lack of Institutional Control” charge, which could lead to significant penalties for the university.
5. Other Staff Members
Several other Michigan staff members are implicated in the allegations. Former staffers Chris Partridge, Denard Robinson, Jesse Minter, and Steve Clinkscale are facing various charges:
– Chris Partridge is accused of pressuring a player to lie to NCAA investigators and committing multiple recruiting violations.
– Steve Clinkscale, Jesse Minter, and Denard Robinson are accused of providing impermissible benefits to recruits.
– Notably, Minter and Robinson are currently working with the NCAA on a negotiated resolution, possibly aiming to mitigate potential penalties.
6. Overall Impact
The NCAA’s draft notice paints a troubling picture of Michigan’s football program, suggesting widespread noncompliance and misconduct among both current and former staff members. The most severe potential consequence that rival fans are watching for is the dreaded “Lack of Institutional Control” charge, which could bring about harsh sanctions not just for the individuals involved but for the entire program.
As the situation develops, Michigan’s football program faces a challenging period of scrutiny and possible penalties that could impact its future significantly. The coming months will reveal how these allegations play out and what consequences the university will face.
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