Michigan student petition to oust Dave Brandon as AD gaining traction, over 3500 signatures

It appears the students have finally reached their breaking point with Dave Brandon.

A petition appeared on the University of Michigan's Central Student Government website early Tuesday morning asking for signatures to "relieve" Dave Brandon from his athletic director duties.

"Dave Brandon is the current Director of Intercollegiate Athletics at the University of Michigan. He has held the title since 2010. Upon being named the Athletic Director, Mr. Brandon stated 'athletic programs play [a role] in helping to shape the culture and image of our university community.' Unfortunately, under Mr. Brandon's tenure, the football program, one of the most prominent programs at the University of Michigan and in the nation, has become a black eye for the University of Michigan," the petition reads. "Instead of adding to the image and prestige of the university, the state of the athletic department has hurt the connection shared between alumni, fans, and the university. Furthermore, policies and decisions of the athletic department have alienated the current student body. As a result, the university risks producing a generation of alumni that are disinterested and disengaged.

Finally, President Mark Schlissel previously stated that one draw of the athletic program is to provide an avenue for 'public attention on to the other wonderful things that are happening on campus...' When the athletic department produces overwhelmingly negative media attention, it distracts from the main mission of the university."

As of 11:30 a.m. on Tuesday, the petition has reached over 3500 signatures and gaining traction rapidly.

Early Tuesday morning, Brandon released a statement explaining the situation that happened against Minnesota on Saturday, which resulted in Shane Morris being left in the game after receiving a "probable, mild, concussion."