Michigan coach Sherrone Moore might face penalties as the NCAA is set to release its notice of allegations (NOA) against the program concerning a sign-stealing scheme. CBS Sports’ Dennis Dodd confirmed that Michigan received a draft of the NOA last week. Moore is accused of deleting over 50 text messages between himself and former Wolverines staffer Connor Stalions, who is central to the scandal.
Possible penalties for Moore include a show-cause order and a one-game suspension, as he is considered a “repeat violator” due to a previous investigation settled in April for recruiting violations during the COVID-19 dead period. That investigation led to three years of probation, fines, recruiting restrictions, and a one-year show-cause for five coaches involved.
However, the potential penalties for Moore could change as the NOA draft might be significantly revised before its official release.
Currently, Moore’s allegations constitute a Level II violation, with Level I violations being the most severe in the NCAA’s punishment process. Former Michigan coach Jim Harbaugh previously stated he was unaware of Stalions’ alleged improper scouting, but the extent of Moore’s involvement and communication with Stalions was previously unclear.
Harbaugh, Stalions, and former staffers Chris Partridge and Denard Robinson are accused of committing Level I violations. Additionally, the school faces a Level I violation charge for a “pattern of noncompliance.”
Stalions, who resigned last November, allegedly purchased tickets for over 30 games, many within the Big Ten, and used “illegal technology” to steal signs. Photos reportedly show him on Central Michigan’s sideline during a season-opening game at Michigan State, allegedly conducting illegal scouting of the Spartans. The NOA draft claims evidence that Stalions wore a disguise and coaching gear on the sideline, which “seriously undermined or threatened the integrity of the NCAA collegiate model.”
Sources told Dodd last November that the NCAA’s investigation was being expedited. Now, as it extends into the latter half of 2024 without a clear resolution, the investigation appears to be nearing its conclusion with the draft NOA in place.
If Moore is suspended, it would be a familiar situation for the program. The Wolverines managed two separate suspensions for Harbaugh last season, maintaining an undefeated 15-0 season and securing a national title before Harbaugh left to coach the Los Angeles Chargers. However, Michigan faces a more challenging schedule in 2024, including games against Texas and USC in September.
