Big Ten informs Michigan it might face disciplinary action - ESPN

The Big Ten formally notified Michigan that it could be facing disciplinary action from the league, a Michigan official told ESPN.

The letter sent to Michigan is part of the Big Ten's sportsmanship policy, which requires a notice of disciplinary action «in the event it becomes clear that an institution is likely to be subjected to disciplinary action.» The NCAA is investigating Michigan for illegal off-campus scouting and signal stealing, but Big Ten commissioner Tony Petitti has the authority to impose discipline under the sportsmanship policy before the lengthy NCAA investigative and infractions process concludes.

The Big Ten's letter alludes to evidence of the illegal signal stealing, which compromised competitive integrity and other principles of the sportsmanship policy, according to sources.

Michigan has until Wednesday to respond to the Big Ten, according to sources. Athletic director Warde Manuel on Monday said he will not travel to Texas for College Football Playoff selection committee meetings, and will remain on campus «attending to important matters regarding the ongoing investigation into our football program.»

Petitti on Friday met with Michigan president Santa Ono in Ann Arbor, Michigan, where he reviewed some of the information obtained from the NCAA about Michigan's alleged signal-stealing operation. Connor Stalions, a Michigan analyst believed to be at the center of the NCAA's investigation, resigned from his position Friday after initially being suspended with pay.

Potential Big Ten discipline for Michigan likely would be a suspension for coach Jim Harbaugh rather than any team-related punishment, according to sources. The league's sportsmanship policy allows Petitti to impose up to a two-game