Central Michigan became the latest program to face formal NCAA charges in connection to the widespread sign-stealing investigation centered around former Michigan staffer Connor Stalions. The school received a notice of allegations from the NCAA on June 27, stemming from a nearly two-year-old incident in which a man believed to be Stalions appeared on the Chippewas' sideline.
The moment in question occurred during Central Michigan's 2023 season opener at Michigan State, when a man resembling Stalions, wearing Chippewas coaching gear and sunglasses that appeared to include a recording device, and facial hair was seen among Central Michigan staffers. The NCAA began investigating the matter in late October 2023, shortly after the photos surfaced online and drew national attention.
Stalions, who since became a central figure in a high-profile sign-stealing scandal, denied being present on the sideline that night. He maintained that position even after the release of the Netflix documentary "Untold: Sign Stealer," which chronicled the larger investigation surrounding his alleged scheme.
According to the NCAA's Division I infractions database, the inquiry into Central Michigan began on Oct. 31, 2023. A formal notice of inquiry followed on Nov. 3, marking the official start of a lengthy process. The investigation lasted more than a year and was delayed several times due to what the NCAA cited as the submission of "false or misleading information," as well as the "withholding of requested materials." A review board finally met on Nov. 21, 2024, before the NOA was issued this summer.
