What Jim Harbaugh’s Level I NCAA violation means for Michigan

Michigan head coach Jim Harbaugh is facing a more serious Level I NCAA violation for failing to cooperate with investigators over a minor violation.

Thursday was a busy one for the Michigan football program.

First, head coach Jim Harbaugh released a statement addressing rumors linking him to NFL, but in doing so he left open the door for an exit.

Then Nicole Auerbach of The Athletic reported that Michigan was facing NCAA infraction allegations.

On Thursday night, the notice of allegations for those infractions arrived and they included something a bit more serious than just the expected “minor violations.”

Jim Harbaugh’s faces Level I NCAA violation for misleading investigators

According to The Athletic, Harbaugh is being hit with a Level I violation, the most serious level under NCAA infractions statutes, because “he failed to cooperate with investigators related to a Level II violation regarding contact with two prospects during the COVID-19 dead period.”

This seems like a classic case of “it’s not the crime, it’s the cover-up.”

The Level II violations Michigan has been brought up for would be the type of minor violations that result in a slap on the wrist. The Wolverines allegedly had improper contact with recruits during the COVID-19 dead period. They also self-reported a violation involving an analyst coaching players.

However, a Level I violation is a much more serious issue, especially if the NCAA determined that Harbaugh’s failure to cooperate was egregious. He could face more than a slap on the wrist.

Most concerning for Michigan fans? The Athletic also reported that the NCAA issues could play a role in whether or not he leaves for the NFL.

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