The Big Ten conference is warning the University of Michigan football program about possible disciplinary action regarding a sign-stealing scandal that's affecting the school. The conference sent a letter to Michigan informing them of the matter, per ESPN.

Michigan football is under an NCAA investigation for allegedly stealing signs from opposing teams for football games. The Big Ten conference says that they can enforce disciplinary action too before the NCAA probe is completed, under league bylaws that require its members to display sportsmanship. The letter alludes to evidence of the illegal signal stealing, per ESPN. Michigan has asked the league to abide by due process as the NCAA investigation continues.

The sign-stealing investigation reached new heights recently as Michigan parted ways with Connor Stalions, an analyst who worked for the school and was mentioned in the probe. Michigan head football coach Jim Harbaugh also was suspended by the school for the first 3 games of the 2023 season as the investigation unfolded.

Article Continues Below
More NCAA Football News
Texas Longhorns quarterback, Arch Manning during his first practice of the spring season on Tuesday, March 25, 2025.
Texas lands potential Arch Manning weapon over Ole Miss, Notre DameLorenzo J Reyna ·
Southern California Trojans wide receiver Makai Lemon (6) carries the ball against Texas A&M Aggies linebacker Daymion Sanford (27) in the second half at Allegiant Stadium.
USC loses recruit to Ohio State before earning a winLorenzo J Reyna ·
Michigan Wolverines helmet on the sideline during the Spring Game at Michigan Stadium.
Michigan football and Alabama left standing for 4-star DLScotty White ·
Michigan fans wave a Michigan flag during warmups before the Ohio State game at Michigan Stadium
Michigan football makes 4-star OT’s top-5Scotty White ·
Oregon Ducks wide receiver Evan Stewart (7) greets fans following the game against the Wisconsin Badgers at Camp Randall Stadium.
Oregon football’s Evan Stewart sends message after crushing injury announcementJaren Kawada ·
Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian and the Texas players take the field for warm up at Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor on Saturday, September 7, 2024.
Texas beats Bill Belichick, North Carolina for 4-star DLLorenzo J Reyna ·

Harbaugh could face greater penalties from both the Big Ten and the NCAA if Michigan is found to have violated NCAA rules. This could include fines and a further suspension. The scandal's created a dark cloud and distracted from Michigan's outstanding 2023 season. The Wolverines are currently undefeated at 9-0 and have a top 10 showdown at Penn State on Saturday. The game has major implications not just in the Big Ten championship race but also the rankings for the College Football Playoff. If the season ended today, Michigan would be in the playoff.

Michigan has until Wednesday to respond to the Big Ten's letter, according to ESPN. Michigan can pursue legal remedies if they see fit.