Nick Saban Counters Alleged Sign Stealing….
Nick Saban Counters Alleged Sign Stealing, Hires Former Michigan Assistant Ahead Of CFP Matchup
A former Michigan assistant has reportedly been hired by Alabama ahead of the Crimson Tide’s College Football Playoff game against the Wolverines.
With all that has happened in Ann Arbor this season, the news arrives at an intriguing moment.
A sign-stealing scandal that rocked collegiate football had UM at its center. That operation appeared to have affected several programs in the Big Ten and beyond, and was reportedly headed by one assistant, Connor Stalions.
The Wolverines were the subject of an NCAA investigation after allegations of possible misconduct. According to reports, the Stalions bought tickets to upcoming Michigan opponents’ games to obtain a competitive advantage.
People seated in the spectators are thought to have videotaped coaches in order to obtain information, having purchased seats with a clear view of the sidelines.
The league’s Big Ten teams were the first to become suspicious, but reports also indicate that teams outside the conference were scouted.
In the midst of the controversy, head coach Jim Harbaugh was suspended for three games and Connor Stalions quit. Nevertheless, the Wolverines won the B1G championship after finishing with a perfect 12-0 record. They’ve now won 28 games in a row throughout the regular season.
As the top seed, Michigan will now take on the Alabama Crimson Tide.
With a bit of his own cunning, Nick Saban seems to be negating any possible competitive advantages.
Alabama hires former Michigan coach ahead of CFP.
George Helow, a former Wolverines assistant, has joined the Crimson Tide and will start right away. That implies that Alabama will have his services available for the Rose Bowl, however it is unclear what capacity he will have.
He was the linebackers coach for Michigan in 2021 and 2022. Prior to the 2023 season, he left the program in February.
Following the revelation, many have already reacted online and shared their opinions on social media.
Coincidence or Nick Saban’s genius?
“Why buy the signals, when you can buy the assistants?”
“Legal cheating has to feel good.”
“A double agent.”
“Just in time for playoffs…”
“Saban will do whatever it takes to win.”
In any case, the sportsbook reflects the belief of sports bettors that Alabama had the advantage. Is there another advantage for the Crimson Tide now?
We’ll find out in time. On New Year’s Day, the Tide and Wolverines begin their College Football Playoff campaign.