In a press conference held earlier this week, Michigan head coach Jim Harbaugh addressed the ongoing NCAA investigation into alleged sign-stealing by the Wolverines and clarified rumors about a contract offer. Harbaugh expressed his commitment to letting the investigation run its course while affirming his focus on coaching the team.

The Wolverines, currently undefeated and ranked No. 2 in the country, are gearing up for a home game against Purdue this weekend. However, the looming investigation has taken the spotlight away from the matchup, with reporters predominantly questioning Harbaugh about the allegations.

Regarding the investigation, Harbaugh emphasized the importance of cooperation and allowing the process to unfold naturally. He stated, "You just have to let it play out. Cooperate with the investigation and watch how it plays out." Harbaugh further expressed his limited involvement in addressing the speculation, given his one-track mind focused on coaching the team.

The investigation led to the suspension of Connor Stalions, an analyst on Harbaugh's staff who was identified as a central figure in the alleged sign-stealing operation. Stalions' role allegedly included in-person scouting, as he purchased tickets for games involving Big Ten teams and possible College Football Playoff contenders, such as Tennessee, Alabama, Georgia, Clemson, and Oregon. ESPN reported that Stalions had acquired tickets for the Penn State vs. Ohio State game, but they went unused after the probe began.

The NCAA investigation was instigated by an outside investigative firm that presented documents and videos obtained from computer drives maintained by multiple Michigan coaches. Last week, NCAA investigators made their way to Ann Arbor to explore the matter further.

Harbaugh refrained from commenting extensively on the investigation, referring back to his initial statement when news of the probe emerged. In that statement, Harbaugh asserted his lack of knowledge or involvement in any illegal sign-stealing activities. He assured, "No matter what program or organization I have led throughout my career, my instructions and awareness of how we scout opponents have always been firmly within the rules."

In addition to addressing the investigation, Harbaugh also addressed rumors about a contract offer being rescinded amid the ongoing situation. According to The Wall Street Journal, a new contract offer to Harbaugh was rumored to have been "rescinded." However, Harbaugh dismissed this claim, stating that the university has a policy of not publicly discussing contracts until they are finalized.

With a visit from Purdue on the schedule this weekend and important games against Penn State and Ohio State on the horizon, Harbaugh expressed the program's readiness and focus. Following a bye week, the team is "refreshed" and in "onward mode" as they continue their season.

As the investigation unfolds, Michigan and Harbaugh will likely continue to face scrutiny. The team's impressive undefeated record and high ranking make the allegations all the more significant. Nevertheless, Harbaugh remains steadfast in his commitment to cooperating with the NCAA investigation while maintaining a strong focus on leading the team forward.