Ann Arbor is buzzing with news as the NCAA has handed out more punishments tied to recruiting violations involving the Michigan Wolverines. Former assistant coaches Jesse Minter and Steve Clinkscale have both received a show-cause penalty, according to reports. Minter, who was the defensive coordinator at Michigan, received a one-year show-cause, while Clinkscale, the former secondary coach, has a two-year show-cause.
Currently, both coaches are working for the Los Angeles Chargers in the NFL, having followed head coach Jim Harbaugh from Michigan. Minter remains the defensive coordinator, and Clinkscale is the defensive backs coach. The NCAA’s statement outlined the violations, indicating that Minter was involved in impermissible early recruiting communications with a prospect before the designated timeline. The NCAA made it clear that Minter was aware such communications were not allowed but did not inform the school’s compliance department about these violations.
Clinkscale’s involvement included providing impermissible benefits to prospects and their families during recruitment. After leaving Michigan, he also failed to fully cooperate with the investigation. Initially, he did not give complete information in an interview but later acknowledged his role in the violations.
The show-cause penalties mean that if Minter or Clinkscale decides to return to college football during their punishment period, they would face these sanctions. Minter’s would last until the end of the 2025 season, while Clinkscale’s would continue into 2026. However, many doubt either will leave their current positions in Los Angeles.
As for the Wolverines, they are preparing for an important upcoming season under head coach Sherrone Moore. It will be Moore’s second year leading the team after a not-so-great 8-5 season last year. Despite some talent leaving for the NFL Draft, Michigan still has high expectations. They will kick off their season against New Mexico on August 30. A key matchup is on the horizon in week two when they travel to Oklahoma, followed by the usual nine-game Big Ten schedule starting on September 20. Fans are especially looking forward to the final Saturday of the regular season when Ohio State comes to town, hoping to put a stop to Michigan’s five-game winning streak.
