NCAA Sanctions Central Michigan Over Stalions Scheme

The NCAA has closed its investigation into the 2023 sideline sign‑stealing incident involving former Michigan staffer Connor Stalions and issued sanctions against Central Michigan University and four former staffers. Central Michigan agreed to two years of probation, a $30,000 fine plus 1% of its football budget, and to strengthen sideline‑access policies as part of a negotiated settlement intended to avoid punishing current student‑athletes. Former quarterbacks coach Jake Kostner received a four‑year show‑cause order after coordinating Stalions’ access, while ex‑head coach Jim McElwain, recruiting director Mike McGee and equipment coordinator Nate Mason each received two‑year show‑cause orders accompanied by multi‑year suspensions and activity restrictions. The NCAA found Kostner obtained apparel and a bench pass using an alias and concluded Mason and McGee helped provide credentials; the three initially gave false or misleading information before cooperating. The committee held McElwain responsible under head‑coach responsibility rules even though it determined he may have been unaware of the plan; McElwain retired after the 2024 season and is now a special assistant to Central Michigan’s athletic director. The settlement resolves the long‑running probe and the NCAA credited Central Michigan with exemplary cooperation.