"The NCAA found no evidence that Jim Harbaugh or Michigan coaches directed or had knowledge of low-level staffer's Connor Stalions' alleged off-campus scouting operation," Safie wrote on X. "Jim Harbaugh made a statement in October 2023 that he had no knowledge, and that's supported."

For Michigan fans, the pride of the championship remains. For rivals and neutral observers, the achievement carries an invisible asterisk. It is this asterisk, not the $20 million fine, that defines the punishment. Michigan will always be remembered as a champion, but in the same breath, it will be remembered as a program that cheated.

The 74-page NCAA report detailed the rift between Jim Harbaugh's football program and the Michigan compliance department.