San Francisco 49ers coach Jim Harbaugh played for the University of Michigan in college. Naturally, his name has come up repeatedly as a coaching candidate amid San Francisco's early season struggles, as well as the current slow start for Wolverines coach Brady Hoke.
The NFL Network's Ian Rapoport weighed in on the situation Sunday.
"I am told by high-ranking Michigan sources that they actually prefer John Harbaugh, the Ravens coach, over Jim Harbaugh, the 49ers coach, because of the longevity that he could give them - he could stay there a while," Rapoport said on NFL Network.
One factor supporting Rapoport's report is the well-known bad blood between Jim Harbaugh and the Michigan alumni stemming from public comments he has made in the past. Some observers, such as ESPN's Tom Carpenter, also think that "his alpha dog approach could be a bad fit alongside alpha-dog AD Dave Brandon." Jim has been known to be boisterous and strong willed while John comes across as more laid back and easy going.
However, there is no word from John Harbaugh's camp that he is even interested in the job or that his current position with the Baltimore Ravens is in jeopardy.
"While Michigan may be interested in him, John Harbaugh isn't expected to pursue a job currently held by his friend, Hoke, according to a source with knowledge of the situation," Aaron Wilson of the Baltimore Sun wrote.
"The source said there are multiple reasons why John Harbaugh wouldn't be inclined to go after the job beyond his friendship and loyalty to Hoke. A big reason is that Harbaugh is content as coach of the Ravens (3-1), with whom he won Super Bowl XLVII just two seasons ago over Jim Harbaugh's 49ers."
Michigan is 2-3 this season.
