BREAKING: Jim Harbaugh Suspended By Big Ten

Although Michigan made a strong case to the Big Ten asking for due process to run its course, the conference decided to issue its own punishment prior to having a completed NCAA investigation.

Michigan did everything it could to keep the Big Ten and Tony Petitti off its tail. But on Friday -- first reported by Pete Thamel --  the Big Ten conference is handing Jim Harbaugh a three-game suspension that carries out until the conclusion of the regular season. The Big Ten is disciplining Harbaugh for in-person scouting and the ongoing sign-stealing investigation. 

While the Big Ten ruled Harbaugh out for Penn State, Maryland, and Ohio State, the conference said he could coach during the week and carry on day-to-day routines. 

The NCAA investigation into the football program for alleged illegal sign-stealing is still ongoing, but the Big Ten clearly thinks it already has enough evidence to act before that investigation is complete. Connor Stalions, a low-level staffer who resigned from the program, reportedly bought tickets to over 30 games in his own name and transferred tickets to others who then would attend games and record future Michigan opponents' signs and signals. 

Connor Stalions

Photo: Christopher Breiler

While the NCAA has told the Big Ten, as of now, there is no connection between what Stalions did and Harbaugh being involved, the conference has ultimately decided to suspend the Michigan head coach. 

On Wednesday, Michigan sent a 10-page letter to the Big Ten stating its case and wanting due process. There were also 11 State of Michigan lawmakers who sent a letter to Petitti urging patience and wanting due process. 

While Harbaugh is suspended, it's apparent that the University of Michigan is going to fight his suspension through any legal means available -- and it's not out of the realm of possibilities that he still coaches on Saturday against Penn State.