In a recent phone conversation with Dellenger, Smith denies involvement in the investigation that has thrown the Michigan football program into turmoil. Dellenger and Wetzel of Sports Illustrated point out that the evidence presented by the NCAA has significantly changed the legal strategy for both the school and head coach Jim Harbaugh.

Harbaugh had already served a three-game suspension earlier this season as a result of self-imposed sanctions by Michigan, aimed at appeasing the NCAA during its probe into alleged recruiting violations. This new development, however, poses a potential challenge for the coach.

Harbaugh is currently in the midst of serving a three-game ban that allows him to coach during the week but prohibits him from attending games. This suspension is scheduled to end after the team's regular-season finale against Ohio State next Saturday.

If a further NCAA suspension is imposed on Harbaugh, it could potentially increase the chances of him returning to the NFL. The 59-year-old coach has already been connected to potential vacancies with the Chicago Bears and the Las Vegas Raiders in the event of coaching changes.

The Raiders recently fired head coach Josh McDaniels and named Antonio Pierce as interim head coach for the remainder of the season. Meanwhile, the Bears have struggled under Matt Eberflus, with a 6-21 record over two seasons.

Harbaugh boasts an impressive 81-25 record in his nine seasons at Michigan. He has also led the program to consecutive Big Ten titles and is vying for a third straight this season.

Prior to his tenure with Michigan, Harbaugh proved successful during his four-year stint as head coach for the San Francisco 49ers in the NFL. With a record of 44-19-1, he led the team to three playoff appearances, including a trip to Super Bowl 47.

Harbaugh solidified his commitment to Michigan when he signed an extension in February 2022, binding him to the program until the 2026 season. In recent speculation surrounding the ongoing sign-stealing investigation, there were reports of the school rescinding another contract extension offer. However, Harbaugh has categorically denied this allegation.

As the investigation unfolds and the potential for a further NCAA suspension looms, all eyes remain on Harbaugh, with NFL teams closely monitoring the situation. The repercussions of this saga could have far-reaching implications not only for the coach but for the college football landscape as well.