Jim Harbaugh faces self-imposed 3-game ban in Michigan

Michigan announced on Monday that head football coach Jim Harbaugh will be suspended for the first three games of the 2023 season. The suspension comes as a result of alleged violations during the COVID-19 dead period. In a statement, athletic director Warde Manuel acknowledged the university’s mistakes and expressed support for Harbaugh and the student-athletes. Details regarding an interim coach for the three games will be announced at a later date.

Harbaugh’s suspension will cover home games against East Carolina, UNLV, and Bowling Green. He will return to the sideline for Michigan’s Big Ten opener against Rutgers on Sept. 23. Initially, it was expected that Harbaugh would serve a four-game suspension, but the NCAA’s infractions committee rejected the negotiated agreement. During the suspension, Harbaugh will be allowed to coach during the week but will not be permitted to coach on game days.

The self-imposed suspension by Michigan is aimed at minimizing the potential punishment from the NCAA, which is not expected until 2024. Harbaugh is facing a Level I violation for non-cooperation with NCAA investigators. The decision to self-impose the suspension indicates the severity of the potential ruling against Harbaugh and shows the school’s desire to mitigate some of the eventual punishment.

While the investigation is still ongoing, it is likely that Harbaugh will face further sanctions based on Michigan’s actions. The NCAA has clarified that the case revolves around impermissible recruiting and coaching activities during the COVID-19 dead period, debunking the narrative that it was a minor violation related to purchasing a cheeseburger.

Harbaugh has chosen not to comment on the investigation, but he previously stated that he has nothing to be ashamed of and looks forward to addressing the situation when the time is right. Sources have indicated that Harbaugh could face a suspension of three to six games for the Level I violation. Michigan is also facing four Level II violations of lesser seriousness.

Harbaugh, a graduate of Michigan and entering his ninth season as head coach, has led the Wolverines to consecutive Big Ten championships and College Football Playoff appearances. The team is considered a favorite in the upcoming season. Harbaugh’s coaching record at Michigan stands at 74-25.

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