Michigan escapes Western Michigan 13-12 after last-second Hail Mary
Bryce Underwood’s final-play pass to JJ Buchanan secured victory after a review restored one second to the clock, but Michigan’s offensive weaknesses remain ahead of its clash with No. 9 Oklahoma.
Michigan defeated Western Michigan 13-12 after quarterback Bryce Underwood found JJ Buchanan with a last-second Hail Mary, following a review that restored one second to the clock.
The result spared Michigan what would have been a damaging defeat, with Western Michigan one second away from its first win over the Wolverines in nine meetings. The dramatic finish, however, came after an uneven offensive display.
According to CBS Sports, Underwood’s footwork and timing were inconsistent, while Michigan’s running game and offensive-line push were ineffective for much of the contest. The Wolverines also struggled to stay on schedule and were repeatedly forced into third-and-long situations.
Underwood is transitioning to offensive coordinator Jason Beck’s system, which places significant demands on the quarterback before and after the snap, including protection checks, timing and route decisions.
Michigan now turns to No. 9 Oklahoma, which is coming off a 51-point shutout win over UTEP. The Sooners are next on the schedule after a game in which Michigan required a final-play escape to secure victory.
