In the midst of the sign-stealing scandal investigation surrounding Michigan, a crucial question has been whether former staffer Connor Stalions received direct financial backing from the team for his alleged efforts to scout other teams’ signs. A recent report by Larry Lage of the Associated Press sheds light on this inquiry.
As per Lage’s findings, Stalions did not submit any expense reports to the team during his official tenure at the school. The Associated Press initiated a Freedom of Information Act request for Stalions’ expense reports covering his employment period from May 2022 through Nov. 3, 2023. The response from Patricia Sellinger, chief freedom of information officer at the school, stated, “There are no responsive records.”
The NCAA has already shared evidence indicating Stalions’ plans, budgeting, and ticket purchases related to games of teams from which he allegedly stole signs. However, at present, there seems to be no financial trail leading back to the Wolverines football program.
While these findings provide a measure of relief for Jim Harbaugh and the Michigan program, it doesn’t necessarily mean they are entirely in the clear. The NCAA doesn’t require proof beyond a reasonable doubt to make judgments, but the absence of financial ties in this aspect could certainly strengthen Michigan’s case.