Inside Read: Devonte Fields' resurfaces in high-stakes theft signals

 Inside Read: Devonte Fields returns to the surface with high stakes signals of theft

To protect their offensive signals from Auburn's coaches, Florida State staffers held up white towels during the January national title game. Wildcats coach Bill Snyder spiced it up with an interview in which he mentioned that Auburn had successfully figured out K-State’s signals.

The Tigers have been at the forefront a growing debate in college football about the use of steal signals. Inside Read interviewed 12 coaches about the widespread use of stealing signals. Most considered espionage to be a high-stakes, intra-team game. Most programs have staffers who are able to see through the binoculars into the press box and observe the signals coming in from the opposite sideline. Coaches have become paranoid about this practice. Although the sign-stealing practices of some teams may raise ethical concerns, they are so widespread that rule changes could be necessary to stop it.

Justin Fuente, Memphis coach said it's a delicate balance. "It happens a lot. If you have signals that people are interested in seeing, it's difficult for them to be criticized."

It is important that Auburn has not been accused of anything illegal. Tigers coach Gus Malzahn denied stealing Kansas State's signals. A Spygate-inspired rule prohibits recording signals using audio or video and mentions signs being stolen only once in the NCAA rulebook. The accusations against Auburn of sign theft may be a recognition that the Tigers are very good at it.

Jimbo Fisher, Florida State coach, acknowledged that stealing signals is part of the game and said he was okay with Auburn's actions. The Inside Read was told by an assistant from the SEC that his team would use wristbands to change their signals. Another SEC assistant stated that he was more worried about the school's staff the bigger it is. He said, "I worry more about Alabama than Auburn to be sincere."

Dameyune, an Auburn assistant coach, was standing next to the Tigers’ defensive coaches during the opening half of the title match. Seminoles receiver Kelvin Bernard, clearly upset by FSU’s offensive woes during the first quarter, was caught on television saying, "Dameyune calling the plays." Auburn led 21-10 at the halftime break, and 21-3 in the second quarter. FSU made adjustments and outscored Auburn 24-10 during the second half to win 34-31.

According to a source familiar with Florida State’s game plan against Auburn, "[Craig] was giving [him] everything that he believed he knew," "They were right in many instances in halftime. Florida State hid the signals and kicked their buts in the second period.

Look at any college football game's sideline and you will see signs being stolen. Mississippi State employs four signalers to throw away opponents. This makes them appear like street mimes signaling tips. You can also see pictures of Scott Van Pelt, Caddyshack gophers on big boards. They have become as much part of the sideline scenery than Gatorade cups or ankle tape. F Baker Mayfield - Professional Poker Player Review Series