How the Sign-Stealing Scandal May Affect Michigan’s College Football Playoff Dreams?

By | Bullscore 20 Oct, 2023

Michigan’s fantastic 7-0 season start is gaining attention this week, but not all of it is positive. The NCAA is currently investigating the Wolverines due to alleged in-person scouting of opponents to figure out their play-calling signs.

The NCAA’s final decision on whether Michigan broke any rules remains uncertain while they investigate.

On a recent “Get Up” segment on ESPN, Heather Dinich discussed the sign-stealing controversy and its potential impact on Michigan’s chances of making it to the College Football Playoff (CFP). Dinich shared important news, saying, “If they are bowl eligible, the CFP told me this morning, Michigan is also eligible to be ranked by the College Football Playoff selection committee.”

.@CFBHeather reacts to the NCAA investigating Michigan amid allegations of sign stealing: pic.twitter.com/n6YcsHtbpe
— Get Up (@GetUpESPN) October 20, 2023

Michigan’s head coach, Jim Harbaugh, responded to the situation by assuring his cooperation with the NCAA’s investigation. He also stated that he had no knowledge of any sign-stealing activities within the football program and that he did not condone breaking NCAA rules. Harbaugh said, “I want to make it clear that I, and my staff, will fully cooperate with the investigation into this matter. I do not have any knowledge or information regarding the University of Michigan football program illegally stealing signals, nor have I directed any staff member or others to participate in an off-campus scouting assignment. I have no awareness of anyone on our staff having done that or having directed that action. I do not condone or tolerate anyone doing anything illegal or against NCAA rules. No matter what program or organization that I have led throughout my career, my instructions and awareness of how we scout opponents have always been firmly within the rules. Pursuant to NCAA rules, I will not be able to comment further while this investigation takes place.”