In a letter addressed to Big Ten Commissioner Tony Petitti, Michigan President Santa Ono has called for the conference to uphold the principle of "due process" in light of the ongoing NCAA investigation into allegations of sign-stealing by the Wolverines' football program. This plea for fairness comes as Petitti explores potential disciplinary actions against Michigan.

Obtained by ESPN's Adam Rittenberg, Ono's email to Petitti was sent prior to their scheduled meeting in Ann Arbor on Friday. The meeting took place during the Big Ten field hockey tournament, where Petitti had the opportunity to discuss the allegations and gather information from the NCAA, as well as other coaches and athletic directors within the conference.

Expressing the University of Michigan's commitment to ethics, integrity, and fair play, Ono emphasized the seriousness with which they approach compliance obligations. He voiced deep concern regarding the allegations and asserted that the university is fully cooperating with the NCAA's investigation in order to separate facts from "irresponsible speculation" prevalent in public and social media discourse.

Ono underscored the importance of conducting investigations fairly, basing conclusions on concrete evidence rather than rushing to judgment in the absence of key facts. He stated, "Due process matters," highlighting that the reputation, livelihoods, and futures of coaches, students, and programs should not be sacrificed prematurely. Ono firmly believes that every member of the Big Ten, including Michigan, deserves a fair, deliberate, and thoughtful process.

Notably, Ono pointed out that the Big Ten has not informed Michigan of its own investigation, which is required under conference rules. He also clarified that oral updates from NCAA enforcement staff do not constitute evidence and should not carry the weight of a formal investigation. Ono urged Petitti to wait for the results of the NCAA investigation and not take any action against the university, its players, or coaches without commencing its own investigation and providing Michigan the opportunity to present its position.

Under the Big Ten's sportsmanship rules, Petitti retains the authority to independently investigate and impose discipline, separate from the NCAA's ongoing process, which is expected to continue beyond the conclusion of the 2023 college football season.

Michigan head coach Jim Harbaugh expressed gratitude for Ono's public support during a press conference following the team's victory over Purdue. However, Michigan Athletic Director Warde Manuel declined to answer questions regarding the investigation or his meeting with Petitti during the commissioner's visit to Ann Arbor.

ESPN's report suggests that if Petitti decides to take action, the focus will likely be on disciplining Harbaugh rather than imposing penalties on the team as a whole. Any discipline exceeding a two-game suspension would require approval from the Big Ten's Joint Group Executive Committee.

Michigan, currently ranked at No. 3 in the College Football Playoff (CFP) rankings, extended their unbeaten season to 9-0 after defeating Purdue with a score of 41-13. The team's upcoming matchups against No. 11 Penn State and No. 1 Ohio State in November hold significant importance as they aim to secure a position in the Big Ten Championship and potentially qualify for the CFP for a third consecutive season. However, amidst mounting evidence of rule violations, questions and criticism surround Michigan's accomplishments.

Harbaugh addressed the criticism, expressing that his team would find motivation in the face of such adversity.

As the NCAA investigation continues, it remains to be seen how the Big Ten and Michigan will navigate this challenging situation, ensuring a fair and just process for all parties involved.