A former University of Michigan football staff member at the center of a major sign-stealing controversy has provided insights into how he decoded rival teams' signals.

According to Daily Wire, Connor Stalions, a former defensive analyst for Michigan, detailed how he managed to decipher Ohio State's play-calling signals during their crucial 2022 matchup.

The revelations came during Stalions' appearance on "Crain & Company," where he discussed the methods he employed to break down opponents' sideline signals. His disclosure sheds new light on the controversial practices that led to both his suspension and eventual resignation from the Michigan football program.

Inside the Sign Stealing Operation

Stalions explained that Ohio State's predictable signal-calling patterns made it relatively easy to decode their plays throughout the 2022 season. The Buckeyes maintained the same live signaler for their entire regular season campaign, a decision that Stalions and his colleague Denard Robinson quickly identified and exploited.

During the interview with former Michigan quarterback and show co-host David Cone, Stalions shared how he anticipated Ohio State's adjustments. He accurately predicted their decision to change signalers during the second half of their matchup.

The strategic advantage gained through signal decoding may have contributed to Michigan's dominant 45-23 victory over Ohio State, particularly evident in the second half when the Buckeyes were held to just three points.

Impact on Michigan's Championship Run

Michigan's football program experienced unprecedented success during Stalions' tenure, achieving a remarkable 40-3 record between 2021 and 2023. The team secured three consecutive Big Ten championships and made three straight College Football Playoff appearances.

The controversy surrounding the sign-stealing allegations led to significant consequences. The Big Ten Conference suspended head coach Jim Harbaugh for three games during the 2023 season, while Stalions faced suspension before ultimately stepping down from his position.

Following his departure from Michigan, Stalions found success as an offensive coordinator at Belleville High School, leading them to a state championship in 2024. His influence extended to recruitment, as he coached top prospect Bryce Underwood, who later committed to Michigan.

Stalions offered insight into his strategic approach by stating:

Ohio State didn't change their live signaler in 2022 all season. The whole year. You can call anyone from any Big Ten team when you trade signals during the week, and they all say the same thing: 'Yeah, it's the same guy.' Now, when you watch any game on TV, you can see … you can tell the whole time who's live.

Stalions, who joined Michigan's staff as a volunteer assistant in 2018, maintains that sign stealing is a common practice in college football. He argues that such practices do not violate NCAA regulations, though the governing body has yet to release its findings regarding specific rule violations.

Controversial legacy shapes college football

The sign-stealing controversy involving Connor Stalions has become a defining moment in college football history. The former Michigan defensive analyst's detailed explanation of how he decoded Ohio State's signals during their 2022 matchup has sparked intense debate about competitive ethics and game strategy.

The incident has led to significant changes in college football, including Harbaugh's suspension and Stalions' resignation, while the NCAA continues its investigation into potential rule violations. The outcome of this investigation could have lasting implications for Michigan's recent achievements, including their 2024 national championship title.