The Central Michigan Chippewas are reportedly launching an investigation after photos surfaced showing a man resembling Michigan Wolverines assistant Connor Stalions on their sideline earlier this season.
While the Chippewas don’t play Michigan this season, Central Michigan does share a common opponent with the Wolverines.
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In Week 1, the Chippewas opened the season on the road against the Michigan State Spartans. While there was nothing seemingly out of the ordinary at the time, the Wolverines’ alleged sign-stealing scandal led by Stalions had led to a new potential discovery.
According to Pete Thamel and Adam Rittenberg of ESPN, Central Michigan is investigating photos that show a man who resembles Stalions on the sideline for their game against Michigan State in the Sept. 1 opener.
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In a statement to ESPN and The Athletic, Central Michigan athletic director Amy Folan confirmed the nature of the investigation and said the school is looking into the facts of the matter.
“We became aware of these photos late yesterday and we are in the process of determining the facts surrounding them. … We have no further comment at this time.”
CMU athletic director Amy Folan on investigation into alleged photo of Connor Stalions
The Wolverines faced Michigan State on Saturday, October 21 at the same stadium. Michigan won 49-0, outgaining the Spartans 357-133 in total yardage.
The man in the photos is wearing Central Michigan-issued gear and standing on the sideline near coaches, with a bench credential. The credential itself reads “VB” and is typically designated for the visiting bench area. Importantly, it’s also different from a general sideline pass.
The NCAA and FBI are actively investigating the Wolverines’ football program and Stalions over numerous allegations of off-campus scouting and signal stealing of opponents. Stalions has been suspended with pay, pending the conclusion of the investigation.