Michigan Football Staff Member Involved in Sign-Stealing Scandal Bought Tickets to 30+ Games at 11 Big Ten Schools

A suspended staff member at the center of the Michigan football sign-stealing scandal has reportedly purchased tickets to more than 30 games at 11 different Big Ten schools over the past three seasons. The staff member, Connor Stalions, would buy tickets in his own name and then forward them to multiple individuals across the country. During one game, a person occupying the seat purchased by Stalions was seen filming the home team’s sideline throughout the entire game.

Tickets Unused After Scandal Breaks

Before the NCAA’s investigation into sign-stealing at Michigan came to light, Stalions had purchased tickets for the Penn State at Ohio State game. These tickets went unused after Yahoo Sports reported the NCAA’s investigation. It was also revealed that Michigan was under investigation for scouting possible College Football Playoff opponents.

No Tickets Involving Michigan as Opponent

According to sources, none of the tickets purchased by Stalions at the 11 schools involved Michigan as an opponent. Instead, the games were related to teams that Michigan would be playing later that year.

Stalions’ Background and Expertise

Stalions, a graduate of the Naval Academy, had been a volunteer at Michigan from 2015 to 2022 before being hired as a full-time analyst in May 2022. He is described as someone who specializes in identifying an opponent’s likely course of action and exploiting vulnerabilities in their scouting process.

NCAA Investigation and Allegations

While stealing an opponent’s signals during a game is common in college football and not against NCAA rules, the investigation is focused on in-person scouting of future opponents, which has been prohibited since 1994. The NCAA is expected to receive video evidence of illegal technology being used in scouting tied to tickets purchased by Stalions.

Michigan’s Elaborate Sign-Stealing Operation

According to a Big Ten coach, Michigan’s sign-stealing operation was described as an elaborate scheme that involved both video footage and in-person recordings. Stalions would purchase tickets to games using his own credit card and ensure he had a clear view of the opposite sideline from seats around the 45-yard line.

Denial From Michigan Head Coach

Michigan head coach Jim Harbaugh denied having any knowledge of the alleged scheme. He stated that he had not directed any staff member to participate in off-campus scouting and was unaware of anyone on the staff being involved.

Michigan Already Facing Separate NCAA Investigation

Michigan was already under investigation for several violations, including Harbaugh meeting with recruits during the COVID dead period. These violations are considered Level II.

Michigan’s Season and Future Games

Despite the ongoing investigations, Michigan remains undefeated with an 8-0 record. They have upcoming games against Purdue, Penn State, Maryland, and Ohio State to conclude the regular season. The team has previously won back-to-back Big Ten titles and made College Football Playoff appearances.