NCAA Concedes Replay Error in Michigan-Western Michigan Finish
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The NCAA Football Bowl Subdivision Oversight Committee admits protocols were missed in a game-deciding Hail Mary, but maintains the result cannot be overturned.
The NCAA Football Bowl Subdivision Oversight Committee announced Wednesday that replay protocols were not followed during the final moments of Michigan's victory over Western Michigan on Sept. 5, as Sportsnet first reported.
According to the committee, the error occurred during the second-to-last play of the game. A replay official added one second back to the clock after an initial incomplete pass from Michigan quarterback Bryce Underwood. This extra second allowed Michigan wide receiver JJ Buchanan to catch a Hail Mary, securing a 13-12 win. The committee noted that the game's outcome would have changed if the correct protocols had been observed.
Despite the admission, the NCAA maintains it lacks the authority to change the result. The committee noted that playing rules prohibit appeals once a referee declares a contest final. While the Mid-American Conference and Western Michigan both requested the result be overturned, the NCAA confirmed the win for Michigan, which is currently ranked No. 19.