In a show of solidarity, University of Michigan President Santa Ono met with Big Ten Conference Commissioner Tony Pettiti to discuss the ongoing NCAA investigation into the football program. Ono also penned a letter to Pettiti, expressing his deep concerns about the allegations and urging a fair and deliberate investigation process.

The contents of the letter, as reported by The Wolverine's Chris Balas, reveal Ono's commitment to ethics, integrity, and fair play. He emphasizes the importance of separating facts from irresponsible speculation that often dominates public and social media discourse.

Ono asserts that it is crucial, especially when key facts are still unknown, to conduct investigations fairly and base conclusions on the actual events that occurred. He highlights the significance of due process and cautions against sacrificing the reputation and livelihoods of coaches, students, and programs in a rush to judgment, regardless of public outcry.

The president acknowledges that the University of Michigan is fully cooperating with the NCAA's investigation, but emphasizes the need for patience and a thorough examination of all evidence. He points out that other representatives of the Big Ten are demanding immediate action, bypassing the necessary investigative process outlined in conference rules. Ono argues that all members of the conference, including Michigan, deserve a fair and thoughtful investigation process if allegations were raised against their people or programs.

Ono also raises the issue that the Big Ten has not informed them of any investigation of its own, as conference rules require. He expresses the university's belief that oral updates from NCAA enforcement staff do not constitute evidence and should not carry significant weight in determining the outcome of the investigation.

The letter concludes by emphasizing that the best course of action is to await the results of the NCAA investigation. However, if the conference refuses to allow the NCAA's investigative process to unfold, the Big Ten may need to initiate its own investigation and give the University of Michigan an opportunity to present its position. Ono asserts that this is not just a matter of conference rules but a fundamental matter of fairness.

While calling for a fair investigation, Ono also acknowledges that swift action should be taken if evidence becomes available that proves other coaches knew about the sign-stealing efforts of Connor Stalions and gained an unfair advantage in games. However, until such evidence arises, Ono argues against imposing punishment on Jim Harbaugh or any other coach.

With rumors circulating about a possible suspension for Harbaugh, the support of the university's president provides reassurance to the coach and the wider University of Michigan community.

The meeting between Ono and Pettiti, along with the letter's contents, underscore the university's commitment to ethics, integrity, and ensuring a fair process in tackling the NCAA investigation. As the investigation continues, the University of Michigan remains steadfast in its determination to protect the reputation and livelihoods of all involved until the facts have been thoroughly examined.