NCAA disciplines Central Michigan and 4 former coaches for Connor Stalions' presence on CMU sideline during game vs. Michigan State

The NCAA has imposed penalties on Central Michigan University (CMU) and four former staff members for their involvement in a scouting scheme linked to Connor Stalions, a former Michigan staffer. Stalions attended the CMU sideline during a 2023 game against Michigan State, wearing CMU gear to decipher play-calling signals. The scheme was orchestrated by Jake Kostner, a former CMU quarterbacks coach, who had a prior relationship with Stalions.

Kostner secured CMU gear and sideline access for Stalions, with the help of Nate Mason, the former coordinator of athletic equipment operations, and Mike McGee, the former director of recruiting. These actions led to CMU receiving a two-year probation and a $30,000 fine. Additionally, former head coach Jim McElwain, Mason, and McGee were each handed two-year show-cause penalties and suspensions. Kostner received a more severe four-year show-cause penalty, with suspensions