Michigan Wolverines makes some changes amidst sign stealing scandal

A day following Jim Harbaugh’s acceptance of a three-game suspension as part of an agreement with the Big Ten to cease its investigation, the University of Michigan terminated its linebackers coach, Chris Patridge.

Michigan announces linebackers coach Chris Partridge has been fired. No reason given. Rick Minter, father of defensive coordinator Jesse Minter and a longtime college coach, will serve as linebackers coach going forward.

— Adam Rittenberg (@ESPNRittenberg) November 17, 2023

Michigan Wolverines Fire Chris Patridge Amid Sign Stealing Scandal

Patridge had been associated with the Wolverines since 2015, initially serving as the director of player personnel and later taking on roles as the special teams coach, safeties coach, and ultimately, linebackers coach from 2016 to 2019. After a stint at Ole Miss, he returned to Michigan in February. Although the university did not explicitly state that Patridge’s dismissal was linked to the sign-stealing allegations, the timing of the decision has raised questions. In the past 24 hours, the university has notably shifted its stance on these investigations.

Despite Jim Harbaugh’s earlier insistence on testifying in court and defending himself, the scheduled court hearing was canceled, and Harbaugh opted to accept the suspension to resolve the Big Ten conference’s inquiry. The firing of Patridge suggests a possible effort by Michigan to distance itself from individuals who may have possessed knowledge about the sign-stealing controversy. This represents a significant change in the university’s approach, seemingly aimed at influencing the NCAA to adopt a more lenient stance in potential disciplinary actions.

While it remains plausible that the termination is coincidental and unrelated to the ongoing investigations, the suspicious timing suggests otherwise. There might have been internal factors prompting the firing, yet the circumstances surrounding it are highly questionable. Amidst these developments, Michigan is gearing up to continue its undefeated season against Maryland.