In a recent development, Big Ten Commissioner Tony Petitti hosted a conference call with athletic directors from across the conference to address the alleged sign-stealing operation by the Michigan football team. According to a report from ESPN, the athletic directors voiced their support for taking action regarding the scandal.

Warde Manuel, the athletic director of Michigan, was reportedly absent from the video conference call. Sources informed ESPN that the leaders of various athletic departments expressed their concerns and urged the conference to step up and take appropriate measures.

Earlier this week, Petitti held a meeting with coaches to discuss the situation. He conveyed to the attendees of the conference call that any decision would be delayed until more facts emerged.

Petitti is believed to have met with the NCAA to discuss the alleged operation, with hopes of obtaining more information, though it remains unclear if the governing body will share details with Petitti and the Big Ten during their investigation.

Furthermore, Petitti expressed his intention to discuss the matter with the presidents of schools in the Big Ten, showing his eagerness to gather more insights from Michigan officials and potentially hold further discussions with the NCAA.

A source familiar with the conference call revealed to ESPN, "The athletic directors had a clear message -- we believe the conference needs to step up."

Questions have arisen regarding whether the Big Ten has the authority to initiate its own investigation into Michigan's potential violations of the conference's sportsmanship policy. Alan Haller, the athletic director of Michigan State, expressed concerns about the Spartans having to make significant adjustments to their signals just days before playing the Wolverines.

Haller also highlighted worries about player safety, as knowledge of the play call by Michigan players could potentially result in increased injury risks for opponents. The administrators reportedly expressed their willingness to assist Petitti in resolving the issue.

According to another source with knowledge of the call, "The athletic directors provided more guidance for a path forward. The coaches spoke from a point of high emotion."

Meanwhile, the Michigan Wolverines, currently boasting an undefeated 9-0 record and ranked third in the College Football Playoff Rankings, were on a bye week but are scheduled to face Purdue on Saturday.

Allegations against Michigan include sending individuals to scout teams they are slated to face, in an attempt to gather information on the signs used to call plays on offense and defense. Connor Stalions, a staffer for the Michigan football program, has been suspended with pay as he is believed to be at the center of the investigation, as reported by Yahoo Sports.

As the investigation unfolds, the Big Ten Conference is working to address the sign-stealing scandal while accommodating concerns around player safety in light of potential play call knowledge by opposing teams. The conference remains committed to a fair and thorough investigation to maintain the integrity of the game.