As Michigan coach Jim Harbaugh reiterated his intention Thursday to remain with the Wolverines in 2023, the NCAA is investigating the program for alleged violations during the COVID-19 recruiting dead period, sources told ESPN.
The violations include alleged impermissible contact with recruits during the NCAA-mandated dead periods, as well as the use of a defensive analyst for on-field coaching activities, a rules violation. Sources told ESPN that Harbaugh’s cooperation with NCAA enforcement staff during the investigation is also being examined. Harbaugh could face penalties that include a multigame suspension, sources said.
Michigan has not received a notice of allegations from the NCAA but could in the coming days or weeks, according to sources.
The NCAA has prepared a draft of notice of allegations to give to Michigan, according to a source, that includes a Level I violation for Harbaugh not complying with or misleading NCAA investigators. Level I violations are the most serious and can lead to harsher penalties. The draft also includes four Level II violations, centered around the impermissible recruiting contact during the COVID period, according to a source. These violations are less serious and are the ones Harbaugh was asked about by NCAA enforcement staff.
NCAA bylaws require head coaches to monitor their staff and maintain an atmosphere of compliance within their program. Coaches who fail to do so are subject to penalties.