Former Michigan staffer Connor Stalions, who had been embroiled in a sign-stealing scandal during the 2023 regular season, made an appearance at the Wolverines’ thrilling 27-20 Rose Bowl victory in overtime against No. 4 Alabama. The presence of Stalions was confirmed by a video posted on Instagram by former Michigan linebacker Chase Winovich, where Stalions could be seen in the stands at Rose Bowl Stadium adorned with a garland of roses around his neck.
In the video, Winovich humorously questions Stalions, saying, “Connor, what are you thinking bro?” and tags Stalions’ Instagram account in his story.
Michigan’s dramatic win over Alabama secured their first-ever spot in the College Football Playoff National Championship, where they will face No. 2 Washington on Monday, Jan. 8 at NRG Stadium in Houston.
I can confirm that Connor Stalions was indeed at the Rose Bowl, per multiple sources.
Former Michigan LB Chase Winovich posted this on his IG story yesterday as well: pic.twitter.com/Sx2T7LI3FJ
— Nicole Auerbach (@NicoleAuerbach) January 2, 2024
Stalions had previously been suspended from his role as a recruiting analyst on Oct. 20 and subsequently resigned in November amid an ongoing NCAA investigation into Michigan’s alleged sign-stealing activities. It was alleged that Stalions purchased tickets to numerous games at Big Ten stadiums, including games featuring potential College Football Playoff teams, with the purported intention of recording sideline signals and gathering information on opposing play-call signals.
An anonymous former Division III coach claimed that Stalions had provided him with money and a game ticket to record opponents’ signs.
Upon his resignation, Stalions’ attorney clarified his decision, stating, “Connor chose to resign because recent stories regarding his time with the University of Michigan have created a distraction for the team. He hopes his resignation will help the team and coaching staff focus on tomorrow’s game and the remainder of the season. Connor also wants to make it clear that, to his knowledge, neither Coach [Jim] Harbaugh, nor any other coach or staff member, told anyone to break any rules or were aware of improper conduct regarding the recent allegations of advanced scouting.”
As a consequence of the scandal, coach Jim Harbaugh received a suspension from participating in gameday activities for the last three games of the regular season, including the crucial victory against Ohio State, citing the league’s sportsmanship policy. Nonetheless, Michigan finished the season with an undefeated record and went on to defeat Iowa in the Big Ten Championship Game, securing their third consecutive conference title.