Jim's FAMILY and friends encouraging him to take UofM job - Schefter

"49ers HC Jim Harbaugh's family and friend have been encouraging him to take the MIchigan HC job, but he is torn because is heart is int eh NFL, per sources close to the situation.

harbaugh first would liek to what head coaching opportunities come available - and he is likely be a top choice for a handful of teams - before getting back to Michigan with an answer, per sources.

Habaugh also is aware of the fact that Michigan might not be able to wait for him, especially when it might not even land the coach who is believe to be the school's top choice. Plus, CFB recruiting is in full swing, and the longer the schoo waits, the more of a disadvantage it can be. It leaves both sides, Michigan and Harbaugh, in a tough and delicate sport, even though they have mutual interest in each other, per sources.

Harbaugh would lile to finish coaching this eason, go through the players' getaway day on Dec 29th and them make his decision as quickly as possible. As another source said, Harbaugh's agent, Dave Dunn, already "has a good sense of realistic NFL options already."

But as one Michigan source wondered Friday, "if he wants to stay in the NFL, who will pay him $8 million per year?", an indication that Michigan is prepared to go hard after Harbaugh.

there is an undisputed emotional connection for Harbaugh, who played at Michigan, is an iconic figure there, and has been hearing from family and friends about returning as the prodigal son. Harbaugh's father, Jack, is influential with his son and he has made it known that he likes and admires Michigan's interim AD, Jim Hackett, whom he got to know in the mid-70's, when he was coaching the DB's at Michigan while Hackett was playing center at the school.

Harbaugh's wife also is said to be open and on board with him going back to AA if that's what he wants, per sources.

While some have pointed out that recruiting would be a challenge, it is one that does not concern Harbaugh, per sources. He believes he has successfully recruited before and he would do so again if he returned to college.

But his family and friends have voiced their opinions to Harbaugh, and made it known that it would be an ideal match. Now, likely by the end of the month, Harbaugh mist make the decision that will shape his professional and personal life for years to come."

hey Admin .... we need all the good karma we can get .... how about a pic of ole #4 on the header .... the current one although it represents a great nite brings back bad memories of the clapper LOL