This morning, Michigan football coach Chris Partridge was fired by the University of Michigan amid an NCAA investigation into alleged illegal sign-stealing from Connor Stalions. Per a new report from Yahoo Sports, Partridge, who had previously been unaware of the extent of the sign-stealing, was fired for attempting to destroy computer evidence.
Michigan football coach Chris Partridge allegedly destroyed evidence
This morning, ESPN unveiled some new details as to why Chris Partridge was fired — its report cited a lack of cooperation and new information uncovered from the NCAA’s interviews. That said, Yahoo Sports dropped a bombshell this morning, reporting that the Michigan football coach may have destroyed a computer, or computer files, in an attempt to cover up the sign-stealing evidence.
“Multiple sources say that (Chris) Partridge is not alleged at this time of knowing about the advanced scouting by Stalions, but acted after the fact to cover up evidence,” the report reads. “… According to sources, the NCAA has yet to find any evidence tying Harbaugh to the scheme. However, the investigation is ongoing and remains in its early phases. It is possible the NCAA could uncover new information, including the knowledge of other staffers or assistant coaches on the Wolverines’ staff.”
The report also says that an assistant coach — likely Partridge — “allegedly participated in the destruction of evidence on a computer after the scandal broke.”
Not a great development for the Maize and Blue
No matter how you spin it, this is not good for Michigan football or Jim Harbaugh. Previously there was reason to believe that Connor Stalions had acted alone in gathering opposing teams’ signals; however, as more comes out, things look messier and worse for the Wolverines’ coaching staff. While Patridge is still not directly tied to Stalions’ sign-stealing efforts, his alleged actions after the fact are damning.
This weekend, amid investigation and more, Michigan football will face Maryland in hopes of improving to 11-0 before taking on Ohio State next weekend.
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