Sherrone Moore, Michigan have strong messages following $20 million NCAA punishment

Big news emerged in college football on Friday as the Michigan Wolverines officially received their punishment from the NCAA for the sign-stealing scandal under former head coach Jim Harbaugh.

While the Wolverines avoided any repercussions regarding the legitimacy of their 2023 Big Ten and national titles and did not receive a postseason ban — which would have been a worst-case scenario — they still face significant sanctions over the next several years.

The program will be on probation for four years and is expected to incur over $20 million in fines. Additionally, head coach Sherrone Moore has been suspended for three games—two in 2025, which were self-imposed by Michigan, and one in 2026.

The sanctions also include a 10-year show-cause penalty for Jim Harbaugh should he ever return to college football as well as an eight-year show-cause for Connor Stalions, who was at the forefront of the scandals.

Shortly after the announcement, the university revealed plans to appeal the ruling:

“We appreciate the work of the Committee on Infractions. But, respectfully, in a number of instances the decision makes fundamental errors in interpreting NCAA bylaws, and it includes conclusions that are directly contrary to the evidence — or lack of evidence — in the record. We will appeal this decision to ensure a fair result, and we will consider all other options.”

Sherrone Moore also released a statement following the news, delivering a strong message ahead of the upcoming season.

“I am glad that this part of the process has been completed. I greatly respect the rules governing collegiate athletics, and it is my intent to have our program comply with those rules at all times. I will continue to focus my attention on our team and the upcoming 2025 season.”

The two games Moore will miss due to suspension this season are scheduled for Week 3 and Week 4 against Central Michigan and Nebraska. In 2026, he will miss the season opener against Western Michigan.

Michigan finished 8-5 overall last season in Moore’s first year as head coach, going 5-4 in the Big Ten and concluding the year with a bowl victory over Alabama. The Wolverines will host New Mexico in the season opener on Aug. 30 before traveling to Norman to face Oklahoma in Week 2 for a prime-time showdown.