MAC appeals Michigan result after disputed Hail Mary finish
The Mid-American Conference says replay protocol was breached in Michigan’s 13–12 win and wants Western Michigan considered the 12–7 winner in postseason deliberations.
The Mid-American Conference has formally appealed to the NCAA FBS Oversight Committee and College Football Playoff, seeking a different treatment of Michigan’s controversial 13–12 win over Western Michigan.
The MAC says Big Ten replay officials failed to follow the required procedure for determining the time remaining at the end of the game. According to the conference, officials used the clock feed embedded in the replay system instead of the broadcast rotary-feed clock.
The conference argues that the error led to one second being restored and an additional play being awarded. It is asking the NCAA and CFP to recognise Western Michigan as the 12–7 winner for rankings, evaluation and postseason selection deliberations, subject to any action within their authority.
Michigan won after quarterback Bryce Underwood’s additional Hail Mary attempt was caught by JJ Buchanan for a 47-yard touchdown. The result was recorded as a 13–12 victory, and Michigan subsequently fell out of the AP Top 25.
Western Michigan president Russ Kavalhuna supported the MAC commissioner’s action, while coach Lance Taylor has urged his team to move forward from the disputed ending. No ruling changing the official result has been reported.
