Now leading the Los Angeles Chargers, Jim Harbaugh has brought a newfound spark to the team. Under his leadership, the Chargers broke their “Chargering” days and stunned the Bengals with a 34-27 victory, proving they can finally close out games.

Linebacker Daiyan Henley credited Harbaugh for giving the team a “purpose,” while veteran Joey Bosa admitted he feels “a special vibe” this season. But not everyone’s sold on Harbaugh’s magic.

Before landing in the NFL spotlight again, Harbaugh led Michigan to glory. The Wolverines thrived, going undefeated in the 2023 regular season, bagging three straight Big Ten championships, and finally lifting a national title after 75 years. Yet, the college accolades didn’t come without drama. Critics point to the NCAA’s ongoing investigation into Michigan’s alleged sign-stealing, with one fan bluntly tweeting, “We don’t count anything from 2021-2023.” Despite his remarkable college run, some fans aren’t ready to let Harbaugh’s past mistakes slide.

Meanwhile, Harbaugh’s wallet has been as active as his coaching. At Michigan, he raked in $8.25 million annually, plus bonuses, with the potential of a $125 million contract. Now with the Chargers, he’s earning a jaw-dropping $16 million annually, just behind Kansas City’s Andy Reid. From private jets to life insurance policies, Harbaugh has enjoyed luxury perks. But his NFL journey still lacks one thing—an iconic championship moment like his college title run.

The contrast hasn’t gone unnoticed by fans, with some taking to X to troll him. One fan sarcastically quipped, “Pretty awful? He had the 17th best win% before Stallions. Cool story.” Another jabbed, hinting his Michigan success was tainted. Harbaugh’s NFL story is just beginning, but fans’ mixed reactions are fueled by expectations—and his hefty paycheck only magnifies the scrutiny.

For Harbaugh, the path to proving himself isn’t just about winning. It’s about silencing the critics who think he hasn’t yet earned his NFL millions.

From college glory to NFL controversy: Fans roast Jim Harbaugh’s legacy

Jim Harbaugh’s transition from college football glory with Michigan to reshaping the Los Angeles Chargers in the NFL hasn’t shielded him from fans’ fiery debates. While some cheer his success, others are less forgiving, with many raising eyebrows at the “championship” claim next to his name. One fan sarcastically quipped, “The trophy next to Harbaugh’s name is misleading. He doesn’t have a Lombardi either,” pointing to his lack of NFL hardware while poking fun at the inclusion of his college accolade.

The NCAA investigation into Michigan’s alleged sign-stealing scandal has only added fuel to the fire, with critics questioning the legitimacy of Harbaugh’s college wins. “His record at Michigan was pretty awful up until Stallions took over. We don’t count anything from 2021-2023,” one fan jabbed, referencing the controversial role of former assistant Connor Stallions. Despite these accusations, others were quick to defend Harbaugh, with one simply labeling the hate as “delusional.”

Still, some sought to set the record straight, emphasizing Harbaugh’s transformation of Michigan’s football program. “Harbaugh got a championship with the chargers?” noted one fan. For loyalists, the criticism often feels misplaced, as they point to his undeniable track record of elevating teams, both in college and now with the Chargers.

Few fans went personal, saying, “Jim Harbaugh championship is a college championship, it don’t count. He’s got zero and paid more than Shanahan.” But skeptics remain, with some sarcastically adding, “Can we get it Asterix on Jim Harbaugh‘s title since that was college and everybody else on there is professional?” hinting at the NCAA drama following him even to the NFL.

Whether you call him a trailblazer or a controversy magnet, Jim Harbaugh’s story continues to divide fans. As one commenter succinctly put it, “Yeah, anyways…” with a picture of his Michigan championship, the narrative remains as fiery as ever. For now, the Chargers’ success under his leadership may be his best response to the critics.