Western Michigan accepts Big Ten ruling after disputed Michigan finish
The Broncos will seek clarification over the replay decision that restored one second and enabled Michigan’s 13–12 Hail Mary win, but there is no appeal process to overturn the result.
Western Michigan has accepted the Big Ten’s replay ruling that restored one second after an apparent game-ending play, allowing Michigan to defeat the Broncos 13–12 with a last-second Hail Mary touchdown.
The Big Ten said replay officials determined Western Michigan safety Micah Davis touched the ball while established out of bounds with one second remaining. Bryce Underwood’s final throw then found JJ Buchanan for a 47-yard touchdown.
The ruling drew scrutiny because the NBC broadcast clock showed zero. The Big Ten said officials instead used a synchronised stadium clock linked to the replay system.
Western Michigan president Russ Kavalhuna said he found no evidence of an unfair or improper process after speaking with Mid-American Conference and Big Ten officials. He said the university would seek clarification, including on the discrepancy between the broadcast and replay clocks, but recognised the result could not be changed.
The Big Ten and MAC said there is no existing appeal process for overturning the decision. Coach Lance Taylor said officials did not cost Western Michigan the game, pointing instead to missed opportunities and his own clock management while acknowledging the loss remained painful.
Western Michigan entered as a four-touchdown underdog, led for much of the game and is a conference favourite after winning the MAC title in 2025. Taylor said the team would use the defeat as a lesson rather than an excuse.
