Former U-M Players, Coaches Defend Bo Schembechler

In a letter made public to the Detroit Free Press on Friday, more than 100 former University of Michigan players, coaches, and staff members have signed a letter defending longtime football coach Glenn "Bo" Schembechler.

The group says that if Bo would have known about the many allegations against former university doctor Robert Anderson, going back to the 1970s, he would have dealt with them swiftly and put a stop to any illegal activities.

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The group is led by former U-M football assistant Jack Harbaugh, the father of current head football coach Jim Harbaugh, and a former Bo assistant in the 1970s.  Others signing the letter are former players and longtime broadcasters Jim Brandstatter and Dan Dierdorf.

Over 800 former Michigan athletes & students have alleged in the last several years that Dr. Anderson sexually assaulted them, again dating back to the 1970s.

Matt Schembechler, Bo's stepson and adopted son, alleged that he was assaulted by Dr. Anderson back in 1969.  And when he told his dad about it, Bo got angry and did nothing.

Earlier this week, many former U-M football players held a press conference outside Michigan Stadium, stating that they want the school to take "immediate action" regarding the many allegations.  They even said they wanted Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel to get involved.

There have been calls for the school to rename the football building (Schembeechler Hall) in light of the allegations.  And to take down the statue of Bo (both the statue and building seen above) outside said building.  It is unclear as to if/when school president Dr. Mark Schlissel and/or the Michigan Board of Regents will take action on the statue.