Coach Jim Harbaugh banned from 3 games over sign-stealing allegations. Michigan asks judge for stay

The Big Ten Conference has imposed a three-game coaching ban on Jim Harbaugh of Michigan, in response to allegations of a sign-stealing scheme, which has caused a major stir in college football. The university quickly contested this decision in court, seeking an injunction to permit Harbaugh to lead the team in their critical upcoming game.

This disciplinary action, declared just a day before Michigan’s game against Penn State, threatens Michigan’s chances of securing a third consecutive Big Ten title and their first national title since 1997. The team, currently undefeated, landed in Pennsylvania shortly before the announcement and promptly criticized the decision.

Michigan President Santa Ono argued that the action taken by Commissioner Tony Petitti was hasty and lacked due process, asserting the university’s right to a comprehensive investigation before penalties are imposed. Harbaugh himself has refuted any involvement in illicit scouting activities.

The school, having previously threatened legal action if penalized without a thorough investigation, has now followed through with a lawsuit. The restraining order request, filed in Washtenaw County, lists Harbaugh and the Michigan board of regents as plaintiffs, with Petitti and the Big Ten as defendants.

The dispute, which began three weeks ago, centers on allegations that Michigan gained an unfair competitive advantage through a prohibited scouting operation over several years. The Big Ten’s decision means Harbaugh will be absent for games against Penn State, Maryland, and Ohio State. However, he can still participate in practices and other activities.

Michigan insists it is cooperating with the NCAA investigation. The central figure in the probe, Connor Stalions, has resigned, maintaining that no coaching staff instructed anyone to break rules.

The Big Ten’s action, swift compared to the ongoing NCAA investigation, is based on allegations that have led to the discovery of tickets purchased in Stalions’ name at various games, suggesting a systematic approach to sign-stealing.

Harbaugh had previously served a three-game suspension this season due to an unrelated NCAA case. His record at Michigan stands impressive, and he has been considered for NFL coaching positions in recent years.

Controversially, Michigan has argued that sign-stealing is a common practice among schools, a claim that has been substantiated by an anonymous former Big Ten program employee but dismissed by the Big Ten Conference.

[AP Sports Writer Larry Lage contributed to this report. For more updates, sign up for alerts at AP college football websites.]

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