The NCAA has issued one of the harshest penalties in recent memory against the University of Michigan football program, closing the chapter on the Connor Stalions sign-stealing scandal.
After months of speculation, the Committee on Infractions announced Friday that Michigan would pay more than $20 million in fines and forfeit postseason football revenue for the next two seasons.
The ruling sparked debate with Tim Brando criticizing the NCAA’s timing and relevance in today’s NIL-driven world. The FOX Sports analyst argued that the sanctions amount to little more than a financial “tax” on Michigan, noting the organization’s diminished enforcement power compared to past decades. He added that college football is now effectively governed by conferences, not the NCAA.
People that may be wondering my thoughts on the @NCAA sanctions against @UMichFootball How’s this for ya? 🤷♂️So what? If I’m a Wolverines fan I’m 😂😂😂. Those that hate Michigan post away, and throw out all your venom but know this, it doesn’t matter and the days of recognizing… pic.twitter.com/6aHeIMC68K
— Tim Brando (@TimBrando) August 16, 2025
The ruling includes a wide set of penalties aimed at both the program and individuals involved. Wolverines coach Sherrone Moore, who already faces a self-imposed two-game suspension in 2025, has been handed an additional one-game suspension in 2026.
Michigan will serve a four-year probation, lose 10% of its scholarships in 2025–26, and endure a 25% cut in recruiting visits. The NCAA also levied a $50,000 fine plus 10% of the football program’s budget, bringing the total financial hit to more than $20 million. The recruiting restrictions include a 14-week communication ban.
Former head coach Jim Harbaugh received a 10-year show-cause order, while Stalions was given an eight-year order, effectively halting their NCAA coaching prospects.
The investigation revealed that Stalions coordinated an illegal in-person scouting operation, purchasing tickets at nearly every Big Ten school and arranging for individuals to record opponents’ sideline signals. Between 2021 and 2023, the scheme allegedly occurred at least 58 times, targeting 13 opponents.
Stalions resigned in 2023, but fallout extended well beyond his departure, with Michigan ultimately charged with 11 violations, six of them classified as Level I.
For Michigan, the sanctions won’t erase its 2023 national title or vacate wins, but the loss of revenue and recruiting limitations could impact the program’s future.
Michigan is No. 14 in the AP Top 25 preseason poll and face New Mexico to open the 2025 football season on Aug. 30.
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