MSU reportedly considered not playing Week 8 vs. Michigan amid allegations of vast sign-stealing network

Michigan is the subject of another NCAA investigation, the Big Ten confirmed in a Thursday statement. This time, Jim Harbaugh’s program is under investigation for allegedly scouting opponents in person.

Scouting future opponents during the same season has been against NCAA rules since 1994. It has been alleged that the Wolverines used in-person scouts as a way to steal signs.

According to another report from Brendan Quinn with The Athletic, the B1G approached Michigan State with “credible evidence” that the Wolverines have successfully stolen signs this season. That same report cites a source saying the B1G claims Michigan has utilized a “vast network” to steal the signs of the opposition.

The Spartans were reportedly informed that the league has reviewed film that shows Michigan had a clear knowledge of what plays an opposing team was going to run before the play occurred.

The league claims that Michigan is using a “vast network” to steal opposing team’s signs, a source tells The Athletic.

Sign stealing is not prohibited in NCAA football, unless a team intercepts in-game electronic communication.

Details ⤵️https://t.co/K4NaZyQfW9

— The Athletic (@TheAthletic) October 19, 2023

The Athletic also reported that the Spartans contemplated not playing the annual rivalry game in Week 8 after being briefed on the investigation. As of Thursday morning, Michigan State confirmed it would still play.

Michigan State considered canceling this weekend’s game against Michigan because of the new investigation into sign stealing. 👀👀 https://t.co/vUWELUjOG7 pic.twitter.com/sCNAVolB7D

— RedditCFB (@RedditCFB) October 19, 2023

Paul Harvey

Paul is a lifelong fan and student of all things college football. He has been covering college football since 2017 and the B1G since 2018.