NCAA Denies Appeal of Michigan Sign-Stealing Penalty

Former staff member Connor Stalions' eight-year show-cause penalty upheld

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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The NCAA appeals committee has denied former Michigan staff member Connor Stalions' appeal of the eight-year show-cause penalty he received for his role in a sign-stealing scandal involving the Wolverines' opponents during the 2021-2023 seasons. The committee found that proper procedures were followed and that Stalions failed to demonstrate any errors in the initial ruling.

Why it matters

This decision upholds significant penalties for Michigan's sign-stealing scheme, which helped the team win the 2023 national championship. It sends a strong message from the NCAA about the consequences for such violations and the importance of maintaining the integrity of college sports.

The details

The NCAA Committee on Infractions had determined in August that Stalions, 30, was at the center of the scheme to collect cellphone videos of opponents' signals during games. Former Michigan head coach Jim Harbaugh received a 10-year show-cause penalty, while his successor Sherrone Moore was fired for an inappropriate relationship with a staff member.

  • In October, Stalions filed an appeal arguing the initial ruling was based on 'procedural errors' and misapplication of NCAA bylaws.
  • The appeals committee deliberated Stalions' case twice in December before issuing its final decision on Wednesday, February 12, 2026.

The players

Connor Stalions

A former Michigan staff member who received an eight-year show-cause penalty from the NCAA for his role in the sign-stealing scandal.

Jim Harbaugh

The former Michigan head coach who received a 10-year show-cause penalty for the sign-stealing scheme that helped the team win the 2023 national championship.

Sherrone Moore

The successor to Harbaugh as Michigan's head coach, who was fired for allegedly engaging in an inappropriate relationship with a staff member.

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What’s next

The NCAA's decision on Stalions' appeal marks the end of the disciplinary process for Michigan's sign-stealing scandal. The school will now need to move forward and rebuild its football program under new leadership.

The takeaway

This case highlights the NCAA's commitment to enforcing its rules and protecting the integrity of college sports, even when it involves a high-profile program like Michigan. The severe penalties handed down serve as a warning to other schools about the consequences of engaging in such misconduct.