In yet another surprising development in what has already been a tumultuous year for Connor Stalions, the former Michigan staffer has now been named the acting head coach of a high school football team just weeks after joining them. Stalions, who was recently hired as a volunteer defensive coordinator at Detroit Mumford High School, finds himself in this new role under unfortunate circumstances.
Stalions’ journey back to the sidelines comes after a significant setback in his career. Once a staffer for the Michigan Wolverines, he was dismissed from the program following his involvement in last season’s sign-stealing scandal. His time away from the game, however, was short-lived. Detroit Mumford High School head coach William McMichael brought him on board as a volunteer defensive coordinator earlier this year, giving Stalions a fresh start.
However, things took an unexpected turn when McMichael was hospitalized last week after suffering a mild stroke. According to a report by CBS Sports’ Dennis Dodd, McMichael had to step away from his coaching duties for an indefinite period, and in his absence, he has entrusted Stalions to lead the team.
“McMichael said he entered the hospital last Friday, Aug. 30, a day after a season-opening loss to Thurston, and stayed for three days. ‘Connor is leading the team now,’ McMichael texted CBS Sports. His return to coaching is currently unknown,” Dodd reported. As a result, Stalions will step in as acting head coach for at least the upcoming game against Hamady High School.
RELATED: Connor Stalions Denies In-Person Scouting Allegations in NCAA Netflix Documentary
Stalions’ relationship with McMichael predates his role at Detroit Mumford. The two became acquainted during Michigan’s recruitment of McMichael’s son, Jeremiah Beasley, a standout high school player. McMichael has spoken highly of Stalions, noting his deep understanding of the game and his ability to prepare young players for the next level. Despite Stalions’ controversial departure from Michigan, McMichael believed in his coaching abilities and welcomed him into the Mumford football program.
In his time as defensive coordinator, Stalions has been working closely with the team to build a strong defensive unit, but his new role as acting head coach presents a much larger challenge. The pressure is on as he steps up to lead the Mustangs in their next matchup, but his familiarity with the team and the game gives him a solid foundation.
While Stalions focuses on guiding the team through this critical period, concerns remain for McMichael’s health. The head coach’s return to the sidelines is still uncertain as he continues to recover. In the meantime, Stalions has been given the reins to lead the Mustangs, a responsibility that could shape his future in coaching.
For now, all eyes will be on Detroit Mumford’s performance under Stalions as they face Hamady High School. And as the high school football season progresses, the story of Connor Stalions’ unexpected rise to head coach adds yet another chapter to what has been a whirlwind year for the former Michigan staffer.
We can only hope that McMichael makes a full recovery and that the team finds success under Stalions’ temporary leadership.
