SpyGate 2.0?
The NCAA has opened an investigation into the Michigan Football program for alleged rule violations relating to sign stealing, according to a report from Ross Dellenger of Yahoo Sports.
The report alleges that the Wolverines used “unnamed individuals” to attend opponent games in-person in an effort to gather information on the signs they use to call both offensive and defensive plays.
“Teams are normally provided extensive video footage to scout opponents. At issue, according to sources, is whether Michigan used unnamed individuals to attend games of both scheduled opponents and possible College Football Playoff opponents in an effort to gather information on the signs they use to call both offensive and defensive plays.”
Dellenger also reports that two of Michigan’s opponents this season said they were aware that Michigan knew their play signs.
“Two of Michigan’s opponents this season told Yahoo Sports they became aware that Michigan knew their play signs. Sign stealing does not violate NCAA rules unless the team uses in-game, electronic equipment to relay the information to players on the field or amongst coaches. The 2023 NCAA football rule book addresses sign stealing in a general way under a section titled Prohibited Field Equipment. It states that ‘any attempt to record, either through audio or video means, any signals given by an opposing player, coach or other team personnel is prohibited.’ No corresponding penalty is listed.”
Michigan is 6-0 and ranked No. 2 in the country heading into a rivalry game Saturday at Michigan State. Yahoo Sports says the Spartans staff was notified of the situation earlier this week.
This isn’t the only thing Michigan is under investigation for. They are also being looked into for a series of Level II rule violations that include Harbaugh meeting with recruits during a COVID dead period, using too many coaches in practices and watching player workouts on Zoom. The school suspended Harbaugh for the first three games of the season after a negotiated resolution between the school and the NCAA.
