NCAA changes replay timing rules after disputed Michigan victory
A new standardised protocol would have given Western Michigan the win, but the official 13–12 result remains unchanged.
The NCAA has introduced a standardised replay-timing protocol after Michigan’s controversial 13–12 victory over Western Michigan, requiring officials to use the game clock embedded in the broadcast feed when restoring or adjusting time.
The protocol, outlined in a memo from NCAA national coordinator of officials Ron Snodgrass, says replay officials must use the broadcast game-clock graphic if an embedded clock is unavailable. The policy is intended to ensure consistency across college football venues.
In the Michigan game, officials restored one second after a Hail Mary play appeared to end with the clock at zero. Michigan quarterback Bryce Underwood then connected with JJ Buchanan on another Hail Mary for the winning touchdown.
Under the new protocol, no additional play would have been awarded after the first attempt and Western Michigan would have won. The MAC is seeking recognition of the Broncos as the rightful winners, while the official result remains Michigan 13, Western Michigan 12.
The basis for the original ruling remains disputed. The Big Ten said its decision followed a synchronised review using a direct view of the stadium clock, while commentators questioned how officials determined that one second remained.
The College Football Playoff has not decided how, if at all, the incident would be considered in future rankings discussions. Michigan subsequently fell from No. 16 to outside the AP top 25 despite winning.
