College Football: Ohio State Julian Fleming (4) in action, runs with the football vs Michigan at Ohio Stadium. Football analyst Connor Stalions and head coach Jim Harbaugh present in the background.
In a surprising turn of events, former Michigan football staffer Connor Stalions, who was at the center of the Wolverines’ sign-stealing scandal, has returned to the sidelines—this time in the high school ranks. Stalions has been named the defensive coordinator for Detroit Mumford High School under head coach William McMichael, as reported by David Goricki of *The Detroit News*.
McMichael didn’t shy away from acknowledging the baggage Stalions brings with him, stating, “I got the most hated man in college football right now, Connor Stalions. He’s my defensive coordinator.”
Stalions was infamously linked to a scheme involving the Michigan football team, where he reportedly orchestrated a network that sent individuals to scout future opponents’ games, using tickets he purchased over a three-year period. This scandal led to significant consequences for the Wolverines, including the suspension of then-head coach Jim Harbaugh, now with the Los Angeles Chargers, for the final three games of the season. Stalions himself was suspended by Michigan in October 2023 and ultimately resigned in early November of that year.
Despite the controversy, Stalions has managed to land a new role in football, taking on a higher position as the defensive coordinator for Detroit Mumford, a program that has struggled in recent years with consecutive 1-8 seasons and no winning records since 2019. McMichael, who is determined to revitalize the program, expressed confidence in Stalions, citing their connection through McMichael’s son, Jeremiah Beasley, who committed to Michigan during Stalions’ tenure there.
“Jeremiah committed to Michigan, and I met (Stalions) during the recruiting process,” McMichael said. “He’s outstanding. I think he knows Michigan’s defense just as well as anyone else who was there with (former defensive coordinator Jesse) Minter and all of those guys.”
McMichael also praised Stalions for his work ethic and football knowledge, emphasizing that both the players and coaching staff are benefiting from his presence. “He’s great with the kids, has an outstanding football mind and we’re learning a lot—not just the kids, but the coaching staff,” McMichael continued. “He’s a great addition to what we’re doing. He can help prepare the kids for college. They are learning the lingo, how they practice in college and how they break down film, so it gives the kids an advantage.”
While Stalions’ past may raise eyebrows, McMichael is undeterred, focusing solely on the positive impact Stalions has had on the team so far. “I’m not worried about it,” McMichael said regarding the NCAA scandal. “What happened with the NCAA doesn’t concern us here at Mumford. He comes here every day and gives 120%, and the kids all love him and we’re all learning from him.”
As for Michigan, the program is looking to put the scandal behind them and focus on a successful 2024 campaign, while Stalions embarks on a new chapter in his coaching career at Detroit Mumford.
This article was Initially Published by ClutchPoints
