It now seems possible that Michigan head coach Rich Rodriguez is going to present evidence that will back his claim that he was induced to sign his previous contract with West Virginia that included a $4 million buyout.

Judge Robert Stone gave partial victories to both sides in a hearing that was held yesterday.

This case is far from over, as reported by Vicki Smith of The Associated Press:

Rodriguez, however, claims he signed that agreement under false pretenses, expecting certain verbal promises from the administration to be kept. They included the reduction or elimination of the buyout clause—a promise WVU denies.

A key motion by WVU was granted, involving the request for any documents related to Rodriguez’ hiring and contract discussions with Michigan. The documents could help WVU prove it was Rodriguez who broke the contract and did so because he wanted to—not because WVU forced him to quit by failing to honor verbal promises.

Though both sides had hoped to conclude the case by midsummer, when practice for football season resumes, Stone said that was unlikely. The judge declined to rule on a motion to speed up the trial, instead ordering the two sides to come up with a case management plan.

Rodriguez said that this case is in no way affecting his ability to affectively coach the Wolverines.

For more recent news from the NCAA reported by the Biz of Football check here.

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