In just a few weeks’ time, Michigan has gone from possible No. 1 to Public Enemy Number One in college football.
The Wolverines are at the center of a massive investigation into whether the team scouted opponents in-person in violation of NCAA bylaws. The vast, opaque allegations have captivated the college football world, and turned now-departed Michigan staffer Connor Stalions into a notorious figure.
On Saturday, the Wolverines took the field for the first time in two weeks—a time frame in which public scrutiny of Michigan has accelerated considerably. They handily defeated Purdue 41–13, but Boilermakers coach Ryan Walters appeared to make his opinions on his adversary known postgame.
Purdue's Ryan Walters with a fly by midfield handshake w/ Jim Harbaugh.
— Jim Weber (@JimMWeber) November 5, 2023
Can't wait for the James Franklin & Ryan Day editions... pic.twitter.com/7mIMA3JosV
NBC cameras captured Harbaugh and Walters shaking hands in the loosest sense of the term, forgoing anything resembling the postgame pleasantries coaches on friendlier terms exchange.
With Penn State, Maryland and Ohio State awaiting the Wolverines, further handshake-related entertainment seems certain to follow.
