No. 16 Michigan defeated Western Michigan 13-12 on Saturday, Sept. 5, 2026, after game officials restored one second to the clock following an apparent expiration of time. The decision allowed Michigan quarterback Bryce Underwood to complete a 47-yard Hail Mary pass to receiver JJ Buchanan for the winning touchdown as time expired for the second time. The game marked the debut of Kyle Whittingham as Michigan’s head coach.
Western Michigan led 12-7 in the final minute after a 20-play, 71-yard drive that consumed over 13 minutes of game time. After recovering a fumble from Underwood with 3:12 remaining, Western Michigan added a field goal with 35 seconds left. Michigan regained possession at their own 7-yard line and advanced to midfield. With nine seconds remaining, Underwood threw a pass that traveled out of the end zone as the scoreboard clock hit zero, prompting Western Michigan players to begin an on-field celebration.
Referees conducted a replay review and determined that the ball was touched while a defender was out of bounds with one second remaining. This determination resulted in the clock being reset. On the final play, Underwood connected with Buchanan in the end zone. The Detroit Free Press reported that Western Michigan outgained Michigan in rushing yards and controlled time of possession for 40:08 compared to Michigan’s 19:52. Michigan recorded nine penalties for 80 yards, including multiple illegal formation calls and a 12-men-on-the-field violation.
Michigan football fans will see the team remain in the national rankings ahead of a Week 2 matchup against No. 9 Oklahoma. Western Michigan players and coaching staff, led by Lance Taylor, will return to their schedule without the upset win they initially celebrated on the field. The scale of the event involved thousands at Michigan Stadium who transitioned from witnessing an apparent loss to rushing the field in victory.
The knock-on effects include potential scrutiny of the Big Ten officiating crew’s explanation for the final second. Some analysts and fans expressed disagreement with the call, with some citing missed penalties, such as a face mask or holding, during the final drives. The next major milestone for Michigan is a nationally televised home game against Oklahoma on September 12 at noon ET on Fox. Western Michigan will continue its season within the MAC, with its next game against UTEP scheduled for September 19.