Michigan Football Staffer Under Investigation for Alleged Sign-Stealing Operation Involving Over 30 Big Ten Games

Connor Stalions, the Michigan staffer at the center of the investigation, allegedly attended games at 11 separate Big Ten schools under his own name and forwarded tickets to other individuals who filmed opponents' sidelines, a violation of NCAA rules if proven.

Connor Stalions, a Michigan football staffer currently under investigation, allegedly purchased tickets for over 30 Big Ten games at 11 different schools in the past three years. He then forwarded these tickets to at least three other individuals, who attended the games instead of him.
The NCAA is expecting video evidence showing an individual recording an opponent's sideline from a seat purchased by Stalions. If proven, this would constitute a violation of NCAA rules as in-person scouting of future opponents has been prohibited since 1994.
Stalions, who was suspended with pay by Michigan, had never purchased tickets for games in which Michigan was playing. The bought tickets were for games where one or both of the teams were future Michigan opponents.
The locations of purchased seats were usually near the 45-yard line and elevated enough to view the opposite sideline, suggesting deliberate positioning for better visibility of team signals.
Despite denying any knowledge of the alleged sign-stealing operation, Michigan's head coach Jim Harbaugh could face punishment under NCAA bylaw 11.1.2.1, as the head coach can be held accountable for the actions of his staff.