In a recent interview, Michigan quarterback J.J. McCarthy provided clarification and further context regarding his earlier comments on sign-stealing in college football. McCarthy stated that approximately 80% of opposing teams, including rival Ohio State, engage in sign-stealing tactics. He emphasized that Michigan's focus is not on stealing signs from other teams, but on protecting their own signs to level the playing field.

Speaking to ESPN's Marty Smith, McCarthy explained that Michigan has been forced to adapt and disguise their signs over the past three years. He expressed his belief that this aspect of their game should not overshadow the hard work and dedication put in by him, his coaches, and his teammates during game preparation.

While scouting opponents and sign-stealing are not inherently against NCAA rules, certain methods, such as in-person scouting and recording play-calling signals, are prohibited. McCarthy stated that Michigan had to raise their level of sign-stealing techniques to match that of Ohio State in previous years, in order to ensure fairness on the field.

McCarthy's comments come after the Big Ten suspended Michigan coach Jim Harbaugh for three games due to a violation of the league's sportsmanship policy. Harbaugh has denied any knowledge or involvement in sign-stealing and off-campus scouting activities.

The alleged leader of Michigan's scouting operation, former staff member Connor Stalions, is under investigation by the NCAA. Investigators have requested access to Stalions' computer, seeking evidence of wrongdoing, as in-person scouting of future opponents is against NCAA regulations.

With the controversy surrounding sign-stealing casting a shadow over the team, McCarthy aims to keep his focus solely on the upcoming game. He reiterated that the team has put in extensive effort, studying film and analyzing opponents' tendencies, beyond mere sign-stealing.

As Michigan prepares for their biggest game of the season, McCarthy hopes to ensure that the sign-stealing scandal does not become a distraction for his teammates. The quarterback emphasized the importance of addressing the issue, while also highlighting the broader aspects of game preparation that often go unnoticed.

Michigan's football program continues to navigate these allegations, striving to maintain a fair and competitive environment on the field. The outcome of the ongoing NCAA investigation into the alleged sign-stealing activities will shed further light on the situation.