Jim Harbaugh is the focus of another investigation from the NCAA into allegations that Michigan conducted in-person scouting of other teams and has been operating an illicit sign-stealing network this season.

Harbaugh issued a statement Thursday evening denying any knowledge of the alleged activities and saying he intends to fully cooperate with the investigation. His full statement is below:

“I want to make it clear that I, and my staff, will fully cooperate with the investigation into this
matter.

“I do not have any knowledge or information regarding the University of Michigan football program illegally stealing signals, nor have I directed any staff member or others to participate in an off-campus scouting assignment. I have no awareness of anyone on our staff having done that or having directed that action.

“I do not condone or tolerate anyone doing anything illegal or against NCAA rules.

“No matter what program or organization that I have led throughout my career, my instructions
and awareness of how we scout opponents have always been firmly within the rules.

“Pursuant to NCAA rules, I will not be able to comment further while this investigation takes place.”

The NCAA is looking into whether Michigan is sending people to attend games of future 2023 opponents, as well as potential postseason matchups, to gather signs. Sign-stealing is not technically prohibited by the NCAA, but in-person scouting of opponents has not been allowed since 1994.

The B1G reportedly approached Michigan State with “credible evidence” that the Wolverines have successfully stolen signs this season. According to the report, the league reviewed film showing Michigan had a clear knowledge of what plays an opposing team was going to run before the play occurred.

MSU reportedly briefly considered not playing the annual rivalry game in Week 8 after being briefed on the investigation but, on Thursday morning, MSU confirmed the game was still on.

“At the University of Michigan, all of us are committed to the highest standards of ethics and integrity for all members of our community,” Michigan AD Warde Manuel said in a statement on Thursday. “This is the same expectation I have of all coaches, staff and student-athletes.”