The Big Ten Conference and the University of Michigan have resolved their litigation connected to sign-stealing allegations. As a result of the agreement, Wolverines head coach Jim Harbaugh will accept the remaining two games of his suspension.
The head coach will now miss games against Maryland and Ohio State. The University of Michigan released a statement after reaching an agreement with the conference.
“This morning, the University, Coach Harbaugh, and the Big Ten resolved their pending litigation. The Conference agreed to close its investigation, and the University and Coach Harbaugh agreed to accept the three-game suspension. Coach Harbaugh, with the University’s support, decided to accept this sanction to return the focus to our student-athletes and their performance on the field. The conference has confirmed that it is not aware of any information suggesting Coch Harbaugh’s involvement in the allegations. The university continues to cooperate fully with the NCAA’s investigation.”
The Big Ten Conference also released a statement on the two sides reaching an agreement.
“The Big Ten Conference’s commitment to student-athletes, sportsmanship, and the commissioner’s duty to protect the integrity of competition will never waiver. Today’s decision by the University of Michigan to withdraw its legal challenge against the conference’s November 10th notice of disciplinary action is indicative of the high standards and values that the conference and the university seek to uphold. The University of Michigan is a valued member of the Big Ten Conference, and the conference will continue to work cooperatively with the university and the NCAA during the process.”
While the Big Ten and the Wolverines have reached an agreement, the NCAA investigation into Michigan remains ongoing.