Central Michigan University Faces NCAA Allegations in Sign-Stealing Investigation

Mount Pleasant, Michigan – Central Michigan University (CMU) has officially received a Notice of Allegations from the NCAA following a lengthy investigation into the controversial sign-stealing saga involving Connor Stalions at Michigan. This situation has captured attention due to Stalions allegedly being able to access the CMU sideline during a 2023 football game against Michigan State.

The NCAA’s Division I infractions dashboard revealed that the NOA was issued to CMU on June 27, indicating that potential punishments could be on the horizon. CMU now has 90 days from the date of the NOA to respond to the allegations, which can be done either in writing or through a negotiated settlement. As part of the investigation timeline, a review board hearing took place in November 2024.

Central Michigan’s inquiry started on October 31, 2023, coinciding with the emergence of social media photos showing a man, allegedly Stalions, wearing CMU colors and standing on the sidelines during the aforementioned game. The CMU athletic department has not responded to multiple inquiries, though university officials have stated they are cooperating with the NCAA.

Former head football coach Jim McElwain, who recently retired, has claimed he was not aware of how Stalions was able to access the CMU sideline. CMU has also maintained that Stalions was not included on any sideline-pass list. However, he had ties to existing CMU staff, including McElwain and Jake Kostner, the former quarterbacks coach.

This situation comes in the wake of a more extensive sign-stealing scandal surrounding Michigan, which later received its own NOA in August 2024. As Michigan faces its repercussions, including a potential self-imposed suspension for head coach Sherrone Moore, the CMU investigation remains ongoing, with no immediate resolution in sight.

The NCAA’s investigation into CMU reportedly faced numerous delays due to “false or misleading information” from parties involved. Additionally, some information was withheld from the NCAA, causing further setbacks. A Freedom of Information Act request has been filed with CMU to obtain the NCAA’s NOA.

As the investigation unfolds, the future for Central Michigan University and its athletic program hangs in the balance, with implications that could affect both current and past officials within the department.