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Alabama has reportedly hired a former Michigan assistant ahead of the Crimson Tide’s College Football Playoff matchup with the Wolverines.
The news comes at an interesting time given what’s transpired this season in Ann Arbor.
UM was at the center of a sign stealing scandal that ripped through college football. That operation was said to have been led by one assistant, Connor Stalions, and seemingly impacted a number of programs in the Big Ten and beyond.
An NCAA investigation took aim at the Wolverines following claims of potential wrongdoing. Reports state that Stalions purchased tickets to games of future Michigan opponents in order to gain a competitive edge.
Buying seats with a clear view of the sidelines, it’s believed that those sitting in the stands then videotaped coaches in order to get information.
Big Ten teams were the first to grow suspicious, but those outside the league have also reportedly been scouted.
Amid the scandal, Connor Stalions resigned, and head coach Jim Harbaugh landed a three-game suspension. Still, the Wolverines capped a perfect 12-0 campaign before winning the B1G title. They’ve now won 28 straight regular season games.
Now, Michigan will face the Alabama Crimson Tide as the No. 1 seed.
Nick Saban appears to be cancelling any potential competitive advantages out with a little gamesmanship of his own.
Alabama hires former Michigan coach ahead of CFP.
The Crimson Tide have hired former Wolverines assistant George Helow, who plans to begin immediately. That means Alabama will have his services for the Rose Bowl, though it’s not yet known what role he’ll play.
At Michigan, he served as linebackers coach in 2021 and 2022. He parted ways with the program in February ahead of the 2023 campaign.
Fans are already reacting to the news online, posting their thoughts 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.”
For what it’s worth, sports bettors already believed Alabama had the edge, and that’s been reflected at the sportsbook. Do the Crimson Tide now have another leg up?
Time will tell. The Tide and Wolverines kick off the College Football Playoff on New Year’s Day.