Title: Michigan President Urges Big Ten Commissioner to Respect Ongoing NCAA Investigation

In a recent development, Michigan University President Santa Ono sent an email to Big Ten Commissioner Tony Petitti, urging him to respect due process and uphold the ongoing NCAA investigation into alleged off-campus scouting and signal stealing by the Wolverines. Ono’s email emphasized Michigan’s commitment to ethics, integrity, and fair play, calling for patience while the investigative process unfolds.

The email, which has been shared with other Big Ten presidents and chancellors, highlights the authority vested in Petitti to independently investigate and impose discipline under the conference’s sportsmanship policy. However, Ono insists that disciplinary action should not be taken until the NCAA’s investigation is complete, which is expected to extend beyond the 2023 season.

The focus of the NCAA investigation is former Michigan analyst, Connor Stalions, who resigned after initially being suspended with pay. Ono stresses the importance of conducting fair investigations and making conclusions based on factual evidence, rather than succumbing to external pressure.

Although other Big Ten schools have been pressuring Michigan to face immediate consequences, Ono asserts that conference rules mandate proper investigations before any action can be taken. He suggests that the best course of action would be to let the NCAA complete its investigation, while simultaneously conducting a thorough probe within the Big Ten.

Sources indicate that if Petitti decides to take action, it is more likely to target Michigan coach Jim Harbaugh rather than imposing penalties on the entire team. In response to potential disciplinary measures, Michigan University will explore all options to protect due process and ensure fair treatment.

As the situation unfolds, it is clear that President Ono is steadfast in his commitment to see through a comprehensive investigation before any disciplinary decisions are made. While awaiting the conclusion of the NCAA investigation, Michigan University, together with the Big Ten conference, will continue to uphold the values of fairness, integrity, and ethical conduct that are core to collegiate sports.