CBS: CMU coaching staff (Jim mcelwain) signed off on Connor stallions sideline access

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A Central Michigan University source has confirmed that CMU football coaching staff requested former University of Michigan football staffer Connor Stalions to assist its staff during CMU's 2023 season opener against Michigan State University on Sept. 1, 2023.


Two sources with direct knowledge of the incident confirmed to CBS News Detroit that a CMU coach initiated contact with Stalions and that then-head coach Jim McElwain was likely aware of and approved of the arrangement to secure Stalions a sideline credential and outfit him in CMU-issued gear.

Stalions' presence on CMU's sidelines has fueled a wave of speculation and theories, largely because it unfolded in the middle of the NCAA's broader investigation into Michigan football for advanced scouting and sign stealing. There has been a question whether or not Stalions somehow snuck onto the sidelines on his own accord. According to the CMU source, Stalions' role during CMU's game against MSU was the result of a direct request from CMU's staff, with the sole purpose of assisting their program for that game.

The situation has also drawn increased attention due to the 2024 resignation of Jake Kostner, who served as CMU's quarterbacks coach, while McElwain retired after the 2024 season and is currently serving in an off-field role as special assistant to the director of athletics.

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