Although Michigan has been mired in a sign-stealing scandal for much of this football season, it hasn’t stopped Wolverines coach Jim Harbaugh from being his authentic self.
Harbaugh missed his fifth game of the season as part of his sanctions from the NCAA and the Big Ten in regard to alleged recruiting violations and the sign-stealing investigation. Michigan (11–0, 8–0 Big Ten) will play host to Ohio State (11–0, 8–0) in The Game on Saturday with a chance to make a third consecutive appearance in the Big Ten championship game and keep its College Football Playoff national title hopes intact.
However, the scandal has loomed over the program in recent weeks, and some observers believe it will be a distraction to the Wolverines this weekend. When asked if he thought the NCAA probe and the subsequent media onslaught was distracting the team, Harbaugh responded in epic fashion.
“With all the outside noise, our locker room’s in one piece,” Harbaugh said. “Like my locker rooms a lot like my mom’s bathing suits; like to see them in one piece.”
Check out his deadpan delivery in the video clip below:
Ladies and Gentlemen: Jim Harbaugh
— The Winged Helmet (@TWH_Chris) November 20, 2023
😂#GoBlue pic.twitter.com/AJbAyEHKwr
Despite the ongoing investigation, Michigan has averaged a 22-point margin of victory against its opponents this season. However, to some, that number might seem overrated, as the Wolverines’ toughest competition has come within the past two weeks in wins against Penn State (24–15) and Maryland (31–24).
Harbaugh appears to be keeping the mood relatively light as the Wolverines prepare for their biggest test of the season. Kickoff between the Wolverines and Buckeyes at The Big House is scheduled for noon ET on Saturday.
