ROSEMONT, Ill. – The Big Ten reprimanded Michigan coach Jim Harbaugh and fined the school $10,000 for violating the conference’s sportsmanship policy by criticizing officials after the Ohio State game on Saturday.
The conference made the announcement Monday, saying Harbaugh violated Big Ten Conference Agreement 10.01, which says, in part:
“The Big Ten Conference expects all contests involving a member institution to be conducted without compromise to any fundamental element of sportsmanship. Such fundamental elements include integrity of competition, civility toward all, and respect, particularly toward opponents and officials.”
Coaches are teachers as well, and there is an expectation that they set the example for students and others in the area of sportsmanship, said the statement issued by conference officials.
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Harbaugh blasted the officiating after the Wolverines’ 30-27 double-overtime loss at Ohio Stadium saying he was “bitterly disappointed” during a lengthy rant.
He complained about an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty he drew, a pass interference against Michigan that prolonged a key drive for the Buckeyes and a non-call of pass interference against Ohio State.
He was most ardent about the spot of a fourth-down play that gave the Buckeyes a first down in overtime when a stop would have won the game for the Wolverines.
Ohio State scored the winning touchdown on the next play.