The NCAA report stated that an "elaborate, impermissible scouting scheme was embedded in the Michigan football program over the course of three seasons," under the leadership of then-coach Jim Harbaugh.

The NCAA imposed a multimillion-dollar fine on Michigan and suspended football coach Sherrone Moore for a third game on Friday for a sign-stealing scandal that has overshadowed college football's most successful program for nearly two years.

Harbaugh, who left Michigan to become head coach of the Los Angeles Chargers after leading the Wolverines to the 2023 national championship, is largely insulated from the immediate impact of the NCAA's ruling. Yet the 10-year show-cause would remain a major barrier should he attempt a return to college football .