Michigan's new head football coach, Sherrone Moore, could be suspended for the start of the season due to NCAA rules violations related to the program's sign-stealing scandal.
According to a notice of allegations (NOA), Moore violated NCAA rules by deleting over 50 text messages with Connor Stalions, a former low-level recruiting staffer involved in an off-campus, advanced-scouting operation. The allegations stem from an investigation into the football program's sign-stealing scandal.
Moore's violation is reportedly classified as Level 2, below the most serious Level 1 violations. The NCAA investigation is ongoing, and the university has not released any updates on its status.
Michigan's New Head Coach Faces NCAA Violations, Potentially Missing Season Opener
The allegations come just days before the start of the season, where Michigan is scheduled to face Fresno State on August 31. Moore took over as head coach after Jim Harbaugh departed for the Los Angeles Chargers, following Michigan's first national title since 1997.
Moore had a successful stint as acting head coach during Harbaugh's suspensions last season, winning all four games, including the season finale against Ohio State. Harbaugh has denied any knowledge of impermissible scouting while with the program but could also face Level 1 violations.
Michigan's New Head Coach Faces NCAA Violations, Potentially Missing Season Opener
Stalions resigned from his role in November, after the investigation began. He initially received a suspension with pay from the school. Despite the turmoil, Michigan won the College Football Playoff over Washington, 34-13.
Running back Blake Corum, who later joined the Los Angeles Rams, defended the team's title against accusations of illegitimacy. He highlighted their victories over top-ranked opponents, including Penn State, Ohio State, Iowa, Alabama, and Washington.
Michigan's New Head Coach Faces NCAA Violations, Potentially Missing Season Opener
The allegations have raised concerns about Moore's ability to lead the team effectively, especially with the season opener approaching. Michigan will also visit Washington in a title game rematch on October 5, as both teams are now Big Ten rivals following the dismantling of the Pac-12.
The Associated Press has contributed to this report.
