Why It Makes Sense for Michigan to Appeal the NCAA Sign-Stealing Investigation Decision

Anyone who has a ear to or an eye on sports media in the past couple years knows about the highly publicized sign-stealing allegations the NCAA made against the University of Michigan (and a handful of individuals) during the late “Jim Harbaugh Era” of Michigan Football. So, I’m not here to talk about the allegations. I’m here to talk about the NCAA Committee on Infraction’s (COI) conclusion and penalty determination and why it is no surprise Michigan plans to appeal. Since I recently had the opportunity to briefly discuss this matter on 760AM WJR’s “Focus with Paul W. Smith,” I figured an expanded discussion is warranted. Let’s talk about what the COI actually said, what the NCAA Division I Bylaws actually say, and why it is important for Michigan to challenge this infractions decision for college sports’ collective well-being.

2024 Sports Law Hot Topics to Watch

Admittedly, saying, “It’s been a while!” is a severe understatement, but after podcasting, growing my legal practice, and going through numerous personal life events across the spectrum, I felt it was time to come back to write something that I know many people used to look forward to reading because it’s that time of the year. My past predictions have been pretty accurate despite some unpredictable events in recent years. So, let’s get this party started!

Here are what I believe will be the Top 5 sports law hot topics to watch:

Understanding the Right of Publicity and College Athletics - An Introduction

Antitrust, Federal, Intellectual Property, Jaime, NCAA, NILJaime MiettinenJuly 20, 2020NCAA, college athletics, college athlete compensation, right of publicity, name image likeness, social injustice, Intellectual Property, equity Comments

Analyzing Michigan House Bill No. 5217 - Another College Athlete Name, Image, & Likeness Proposal

Last week, Representatives Brandt Iden (R-Oshtemo) and Joe Tate (D-Detroit) presented bipartisan legislation that would allow college athletes to be compensated for their name, image, and likeness under certain circumstances in the State of Michigan.

So, let’s get to dissecting this sucker and perform a legal analysis!

Jaime Wrote a Limerick

Jaime, NCAA, NIL, Intellectual PropertyJaime MiettinenOctober 30, 2019NCAA, right of publicity, student athletes, college athletics, name image likenessComment

College Athlete Name, Image, & Likeness (NIL) Law Database

Here you will find links, news, etc. on laws announced, proposed, &/or passed

(last updated on 2/10/21)