Michigan announces plans to appeal sanctions, cites ‘fundamental errors’
Michigan plans to appeal the sanctions it received from the NCAA on Friday afternoon that stemmed from a lengthy investigation into the Wolverines’ sign-stealing scandal.
The harshest penalties were levied on individuals who are no longer with the program. Former coach Jim Harbaugh received a 10-year show-cause penalty and ex-staffer Connor Stalions was hit with an 8-year show-cause.
However, the NCAA also levied significant fines and recruiting restrictions against Michigan in addition to a suspension for coach Sherrone Moore. Moore is already set to serve a two-game suspension that was self-imposed in 2025-26, but the committee on infractions added a third game to that suspension to be served in 2026-27.
In a statement released on Friday afternoon, Michigan says the Committee on Infractions made “fundamental errors” in its assessment:
We appreciate the work of the Committee on Infractions. But, respectfully, in a number of instances the decision makes fundamental errors in interpreting NCAA bylaws; and it includes a number of conclusions that are directly contrary to the evidence — or lack of evidence — in the record. We will appeal this decision to ensure a fair result, and we will consider all other options.
Michigan athletic director Warde Manuel also released a statement on the matter, supporting the university’s decision to file an appeal.
Here is that statement in full:
It is never our intent to be in a position where we are accused of any rules violations. I fully support Coach Sherrone Moore, our student-athletes and staff as they prepare for the season ahead. I appreciate Coach Moore’s continued commitment to ensuring his program operates in compliance with applicable rules. I acknowledge the Committee on Infractions’ decision to not penalize our current student-athletes by eliminating postseason opportunities; however, a postseason ban should never have been a consideration in this case. I fully support the university’s decision to pursue an appeal. Coach Moore and I will not have any further comment.
Michigan will open the 2025 season with New Mexico on Aug. 30.
Spenser is a news editor for Saturday Down South and covers college football across all Saturday Football brands.