Jimbo Fisher has no problem with Michigan’s Florida trip

(AP Photo/Joe Reedy) While ACC commissioner John Swofford has spoken out against Michigan’s spring practices in Florida, one head coach from Swofford’s conference doesn’t have a problem with it.

Florida State head coach Jimbo Fisher told reporters Tuesday that he “applaud(s)” Wolverines head coach Jim Harbaugh for thinking outside the box by holding practice this week at IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida.

“I applaud the guy. He’s doing things that he has to do to be successful,” Fisher said per the Palm Beach Post. “Jim beat the rules. That’s fine. I applaud Jim for trying to do something different.”

Swofford is among several prominent figures – including NCAA president Mark Emmert, SEC commissioner Greg Sankey and Georgia head coach Kirby Smart – to speak out against Michigan’s spring practices, which began Monday. Their point of contention is the issue of time demands on student-athletes, especially with the Wolverines participating in football activities during spring break when UM students are on break from class.

There is an obvious recruiting motive behind Michigan’s trip – IMG Academy is one of the top high school programs in the country. However, Fisher doesn’t believe Michigan will receive much of a boost in that regard.

“No, I don’t. They’ll get some players. Michigan always came to Florida and got players,” Fisher said. “I promise I lose no sleep over it.”

Recruits are allowed to attend Michigan’s Friday practice, but the other three this week are closed sessions. UM signed six players from Florida in its 2016 class.

And though he doesn’t have an issue with what Harbaugh is doing, a spring practice trip for his team is not something Fisher would consider.

“I’m not going to do it to our players or our coaches,” Fisher said. “I think it’s important to have a mental break from the game.”

Luckily for Fisher, the NCAA appears ready to step in and take on this hard-hitting issue. Emmert indicated a few weeks ago that Michigan’s trip will be discussed at the next NCAA Football Oversight Committee meeting.

Oh, and if you’re wondering if Harbaugh cares about the uproar. He doesn’t.