After losing to heavy underdog Michigan State, Jim Harbaugh is coming under fire from the Michigan fan base.

However, one of Michigan’s former coaches is firmly in his corner. Rich Rodriguez explained on his “Hard Edge” podcast that Michigan’s woes have nothing to do with Harbaugh.

“Boy, I have a lot of thoughts — I wonder why,” Rodriguez said, as transcribed by USA Today. “Something wasn’t a surprise, and Michigan was a three-touchdown favorite [against Michigan State]. I don’t think the homefield has anything to do with it — there’s no fans at the game, anyway. But, despite maybe what many fans may be saying or people that follow college football, I do not think Michigan has a coach problem. It’s not a coach problem. It’s different than that.”

Harbaugh has amassed a disappointing 48-19 record in six seasons at Michigan but Rodriguez doesn’t consider his tenure a failure.

“He’s 48-18 going into that game, he’s won a lot of games,” Rodriguez said. “Certainly he’s had struggles against Ohio State – who hasn’t, right? Michigan State’s beat them a few times. But Jim Harbaugh is not your problem, Michigan. He’s got an outstanding coaching staff. I think he’s an outstanding football coach.”

This comes while there’s word of Harbaugh potentially being open to returning to the NFL.

Michigan lost to Michigan State despite being a 24-point favorite. The slate doesn’t get any easier for Harbaugh, as Michigan faces upstart Indiana this Saturday.

While it’s nice to have the support of a peer like Rodriguez, the hot seat will continue to increase in temperature for Harbaugh unless Michigan turns things around this season.