Breaking Down Michigan’s Potential Punishments: Pete Thamel Reveals Insights on Sherrone Moore’s Sign-Stealing Scandal

On Friday, the NCAA Infractions Committee is expected to reveal findings from its two-year investigation into Michigan’s sign-stealing scandal, which has drawn considerable attention. This investigation centers around Connor Stalions, a former staff member. So far, Michigan has self-imposed a two-game suspension for coach Sherrone Moore, who was part of the team during their championship run in 2023.

During an appearance on The Pat McAfee Show, ESPN insider Pete Thamel shared insights on what Michigan might face when the NCAA announces its decision. Thamel suggested that any new penalties would likely be light, possibly just a few additional games for Moore, who already received a suspension for the third and fourth games of the 2025 season against Central Michigan and Nebraska. Reports indicate that Moore deleted over 50 messages from Stalions on the day the scandal broke in October 2023.

Thamel stated, “This is probably the last major action in this case. We expect a hefty fine, but no postseason ban or stripping of titles.” He noted that the NCAA often accepts self-imposed penalties, so any additions could be minimal. Previous NCAA cases show that when teams self-impose sanctions, the NCAA tends to keep penalties within a similar range.

“This situation is like negotiating for a used car,” Thamel explained. “You start below the market value, so any extra games may only slightly increase the initial penalty.”

There’s also the possibility of appeals, meaning this could drag on a bit longer, but significant new developments or consequences seem unlikely.

Former head coach Jim Harbaugh already faced separate suspensions related to recruiting violations during the COVID-19 dead period. In June, the NCAA committee focused on Michigan’s advanced scouting practices, which are against NCAA rules.

Stalions has faced serious repercussions from the scandal, resigning from Michigan and moving to coaching at the high school level. Another casualty was former assistant coach Chris Partridge, who was also fired.

In August 2024, Michigan received its initial Notice of Allegations from the NCAA, accusing the team and Stalions of illegal scouting against 13 opponents on at least 58 occasions from 2021 to 2023.

As it stands, the release of the NCAA’s findings will mark a significant turning point for Michigan and its coaching staff. The fallout and ongoing public reaction will shape the narrative as the college football season progresses.

For more detailed statistics on NCAA investigations, check out the NCAA official website.

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