Big Ten makes disappointing decision regarding Michigan-Michigan State football scuffle

Why are we even shocked anymore? After submitting information regarding the post-game incident involving Michigan players appearing to step on or stomp a downed Michigan State football staffer and player, the Spartans got a verdict from the Big Ten on Tuesday.

And it was kind of what we all expected.

The Big Ten has decided not to review it any further or pursue any punishments for the players who looked to be involved on video in the post-game scuffle. Michigan will not be forced to punish anyone for what took place in Ann Arbor.

Statement from the Big Ten re: the incident at the end of the Michigan-Michigan State game. League has reviewed video but it is inconclusive. No further action taken. pic.twitter.com/twqLid2wOQ

— Nicole Auerbach (@NicoleAuerbach) October 29, 2024

Shocking.

But Michigan fans will tell you that Jim Harbaugh was unfairly punished last year by the Big Ten and suspended three games — surely he didn’t do anything that broke the rules to warrant that type of punishment. His program surely wasn’t under investigation for a couple of different things. That was totally unfair and unjust.

Yet when Michigan State players (minus the helmet-wielding Khary Crump) were in the tunnel in 2022, Harbaugh wanted them to face criminal charges. Yes, even the non-helmet-wielding players. He wanted their lives ruined over the incident.

But when Michigan State is on the other side, it’s not a big deal.

I get it to a degree. There isn’t enough on video to clearly prove that a Michigan player — or players, plural — is stomping or kicking or stepping on a Michigan State staffer and/or player so it’s impossible to make a ruling. But to give it one day and say “well, we tried” is laughable. At least interview some witnesses or the player and staffer that were involved and look at potential injuries or maybe do more than just take Michigan’s word for it.

And this is also an Alan Haller issue. He had a chance to say exactly what happened and who was involved and what they claimed, but he won’t shed light on the situation, only say that he disagrees with the ruling, but it’s final and he has to respect it.

It’s time for the athletic department to stop being pushovers and actually hold people accountable.