When he was coaching Central Michigan, Jim McElwain gave sideline access to known sign stealer Connor Stallions. CMU has agreed to NCAA sanctions, including two years of probation.

According to the Athletic: McElwain "was deemed responsible for the violations under the NCAA’s head coach responsibility rules, though the case summary does not detail any direct involvement on McElwain’s part."

NCAA sanctions C. Michigan in Stalions scandal Central Michigan, former coach Jim McElwain and former staffers will face NCAA penalties for their roles in allowing former Connor Stalions to be on the sidelines during a 2023 game against Michigan State.