Eric Boggs
The University of Michigan football program finds itself embroiled in yet another controversy, as former quarterbacks coach and co-offensive coordinator Matt Weiss has been indicted on federal criminal charges related to identity theft and computer hacking. The indictment, issued Thursday by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, accuses Weiss of illegally accessing computer databases at over 100 universities to steal the identities of more than 3,300 student-athletes, primarily targeting female athletes.
The Allegations Against Weiss
According to the indictment, Weiss, 42, executed his scheme between 2015 and 2023. The former Michigan coach allegedly gained unauthorized access to databases maintained by a third-party vendor, collecting private photographs and videos that were never intended to be shared beyond intimate partners. The U.S. Attorney’s Office claims that Weiss meticulously researched his victims, using personal information to break into their accounts and gather sensitive data.
The indictment further alleges that Weiss initially infiltrated university databases by targeting individuals with elevated access, such as trainers and athletic directors. He then extracted passwords and confidential information to expand his operation, ultimately hacking into the social media and email accounts of more than 2,000 student-athletes. In total, Weiss reportedly accessed the private data of over 150,000 students and alumni across the nation.
While he is not accused of using the stolen identities for financial gain, federal investigators believe Weiss’s primary motive was to obtain and collect intimate content. If convicted, he faces up to five years in prison per count of unauthorized computer access and two additional years per count of aggravated identity theft.
Michigan’s Silence Raises Eyebrows
Despite the gravity of the allegations, the University of Michigan has remained largely silent. Michigan football spokesman Dave Abloff simply referred media inquiries to the FBI, refusing to comment further. The university’s reluctance to address the scandal publicly has only fueled criticism, particularly from rival fan bases who see this as another black mark on the Wolverines’ program.
This case is just the latest controversy surrounding Michigan athletics. The Wolverines have already been under scrutiny for alleged sign-stealing and potential gambling violations. Some reports suggest that the FBI’s investigation into Weiss may have unearthed additional information related to Michigan’s competitive integrity, including possible unauthorized access to other teams’ practice film.
Michigan Fans Divided
In the wake of the indictment, Michigan fans are at a crossroads. Many are demanding accountability and a thorough house-cleaning within the program, while others continue to deflect, blaming rival fan bases and media scrutiny. Some fans have even suggested that Ohio State supporters are exploiting the scandal for their own gain, a sentiment echoed by Michigan sports commentator James Yoder. However, the core issue remains: a former Michigan coach stands accused of a serious federal crime, and the university’s handling of the situation has left much to be desired.
The Bigger Picture
Beyond the rivalry banter, this scandal underscores a troubling reality: a major college football program is facing serious allegations that go beyond sports. The victims in this case are not Michigan players or staff, but the thousands of student-athletes whose privacy was violated. Regardless of team loyalties, the focus should be on justice for those affected and ensuring that such breaches never happen again.
As the legal process unfolds, all eyes will be on the University of Michigan. Will the administration take meaningful action, or will it continue to downplay yet another controversy? One thing is clear: the Michigan fan base, one of the largest in college football, has the power to demand change. Whether they choose to do so remains to be seen.
For now, Michigan’s silence speaks volumes.
