Central Michigan University (CMU) staff — notably a coach — initiated contact with former Michigan staffer Connor Stalions to have him assist on the sideline during their season opener against Michigan State on September 1, 2023. He was given sideline credentials and outfitted in CMU-issued gear for the purpose of helping with play calling and deciphering MSU’s signals. Key individuals likely aware of or approving the arrangement include then-head coach Jim McElwain.
This revelation conclusively dispels earlier theories that Stalions might have acted independently or under direction from Michigan. Instead, it firmly indicates he was brought in by CMU at their request, independent of the University of Michigan’s involvement.
—
Key Points
What happened: CMU staff arranged for Connor Stalions to be on their sideline during their game against Michigan State (Sept 1, 2023), providing him sideline access and attire to assist their team.
Motivation: According to sources, his role was both to decode Michigan State’s signals and to aid a CMU staff member with in-game play calling.
Responsibility: The arrangement was CMU’s doing — not Michigan’s. There is no indication Michigan requested or approved this.
Institutional fallout: McElwain, Kostner (QB coach), and DB coach Mike Zordich departed the CMU program in the aftermath. CMU is currently under investigation by the NCAA over this incident.
—
Context in the Broader Scandal
This sideline incident occurred amidst the NCAA’s broader investigation into Michigan’s sign-stealing practices between 2021 and 2023 — actions that involved Stalions and resulted in significant penalties for Michigan.
Stalions received an eight-year show-cause penalty, effectively barring him from NCAA-related football roles for that period.
Michigan avoided losing the 2023 national title but faced hefty fines, recruiting restrictions, probation, and internal suspensions.
—
Summary Table
Detail Information
What occurred Connor Stalions was placed on CMU’s sideline to assist with play calling and signal decoding during 2023 opener vs. MSU.
Who arranged it CMU coaching staff, likely including then-head coach Jim McElwain.
Reason To assist CMU with in-game strategy, not to benefit Michigan.
Michigan’s involvement None—this was CMU’s action.
Aftermath for CMU Key staff departures (McElwain, Kostner, Zordich); current NCAA investigation.
—
Bottom Line
CMU intentionally brought Stalions onto their sideline—it was their staff’s decision, not Michigan’s. He was there to aid CMU’s play calling and signal reading during the game against MSU, a move now under NCAA scrutiny.
