ESPN college football analyst Paul Finebaum is always open with his views, and this week was no different. Finebaum commented on a tweet from current Illinois Fighting Illini head coach Bret Bielema, which directed criticism at former Michigan Wolverines head coach Jim Harbaugh.
This announcement was made in reaction to the cheating scandal that has clouded the program’s recent achievements, which include their national championship season in 2023.
Bielema shared a quote from Harbaugh that said, “If you cheat to win, you’ve already lost.” However, Bielema stated, “Truly… What made you depart? I was excited to play, but I understand your decision to join the NFL. “Looking forward to seeing you in the future and excited!”
Paul Finebaum promptly aligned himself with Bielema, swiftly branding Harbaugh a “fraud” and criticized the veteran coach—who has experience in both the NFL and college levels.
“I’ve always been a fan of Bret,” Finebaum mentioned on The Paul Finebaum Show on Wednesday. “He was entertaining when we were together.” However, he is correct. Harbaugh is merely a hypocritical phony regarding everything he once professed. He didn’t want to confront the consequences. “Incidentally, Michigan wasn’t particularly eager for him to remain.”
Harbaugh, who guided Michigan for nine years, steered the team to a national championship in 2023 following a perfect season. Nonetheless, his achievement was surrounded by controversy, as Michigan faced allegations of sign-stealing, with staffer Connor Stalions supposedly coordinating the operation. Although Harbaugh stated he was unaware of it.
During the active investigations, Harbaugh departed for the NFL to take on the role of head coach for the Los Angeles Chargers, guiding them to the playoffs in his inaugural season. Nonetheless, should he come back to college football prior to 2028, he would encounter a suspension due to his breach of recruiting regulations for his “improper” interactions with recruits and players during the Covid-19 pandemic.
