Jim Harbaugh could be suspended over a hamburger

As ridiculous as it may seem, Jim Harbaugh and Michigan football are currently under investigation for numerous NCAA rules violations. The Wolverines are facing one Level 1 violation and four Level 2 violations in what has become known as ‘Burgergate.’

Jim Harbaugh facing suspension over hamburger

This week, immediately after Jim Harbaugh shut down the rumors that he would return to the NFL in 2023, the NCAA filed a notice of allegations against Michigan football which include five total infractions. Harbaugh is the subject of one Level 1 violation — the most serious level the NCAA has. Because of this, the Wolverines’ head coach is facing a suspension of up-to six games in 2023.

Why is Jim Harbaugh facing suspension, you ask? Well, it is ridiculous to say the least. Back in 2020, a few of Michigan’s recruits (that were already committed) “ran into” Harbaugh and Co. at The Little Brown Jug — a restaurant and bar off South U in Ann Arbor, MI. Recently — following Michigan’s back-to-back Big Ten Championships and CFP appearances in 2021 and 2022 — the NCAA obtain receipts and evidence that show that Harbaugh bought said recruit a hamburger.

After the events, Jim Harbaugh reportedly lied to the NCAA that it had ever happened, which is where the violations are coming from. Harbaugh’s lie led to the NCAA re-opening a new investigation into the matter and will likely result in his suspension in 2023.

Level II violations are less serious but still there

The Wolverines are still facing a few Level 2 violations as well for allowing analysts to coach on the field. Additionally, Michigan football reportedly met with recruits via zoom workouts during the COVID-19 recruiting dead period. These infractions are minor, and I don’t expect anything more than a slap on the wrist at best.

What could Harbaugh miss if suspended?

Luckily, even if Jim Harbaugh is suspended for all six games, the Wolverines’ head coach would not be missing much. Michigan’s first three games are against its non-conference opponents are look relatively easy heading into the 2023 season. Michigan is slated to face East Carolina, UNLV, and Bowling Green in its non-conference slate. After those three games, the Wolverines face Rutgers at home before traveling to face Nebraska and Minnesota.

While it would not be ideal to see Jim Harbaugh get suspended to start the season, though with Michigan’s schedule, I expect the Wolverines will be fine either way.