University of Michigan Wolverines head coach Jim Harbaugh is hoping criminal charges will be filed against four Michigan State Spartans athletes who violently assaulted two of his players after their last game.
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After Michigan University’s convincing 29-7 win over rival Michigan State University on Saturday, four Michigan State players attacked two Wolverines footballers in the tunnel at the home turf.
Several videos of the attack also circulated on social networks. Those involved include linebacker Tank Brown, cornerback Khary Crump, safety Angelo Grose and defensive lineman Zion Young.
The foursome thrashed defender Gemon Green and teammate Ja’Den McBurrows, who tried to help him, Jim Harbaugh told ESPN.
“They will have to be held accountable,” said the pilot. There must be an investigation to shed light on this. I can’t imagine that this won’t lead to criminal charges. The videos clearly show the evil intentions of the players involved. There is no doubt.”
“As a program, we have a responsibility to each of the players,” he continued. We have the trust of their parents and we must treat them like our own children. I take this responsibility very seriously and I can tell you that an apology will not suffice. There must be serious consequences. It’s a traumatic experience for the entire program, especially for the two players on our team who were involved. We will support them.”
Harbaugh told CNN that one of the victims may have had a broken nose from the attack.
“I saw one of the videos, it’s 10 to 1, it’s unfortunate,” he said.
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For his part, Michigan State Spartans coach Mel Tucker announced the suspension of the four players on his team involved in the aggression.
“It doesn’t represent the culture of our organization at all,” he said. I made the decision to suspend her based on the video evidence presented to me on Sunday. The players involved can receive academic and medical support, but they cannot participate in activities related to our team. This includes team meetings, exercises and games. We will work with the authorities.”
“We deeply regret what happened,” he added. […] Out of respect for the ongoing investigation, it would be irresponsible to comment further.”