NCAA changing replay review protocol after Western Michigan-Michigan game controversy

By the Editorial Team · Thursday, September 10, 2026

The NCAA has updated its replay review rules to standardize the use of the stadium clock and broadcast timing feeds for game clock adjustments following a disputed ending in the Michigan vs. Western Michigan game. This change aims to prevent similar controversies in future games, though Western Michigan’s conference is still appealing the result to have their team recognized as the winner.

The NCAA is revising its replay review procedures following a contentious finish in the season opener between Western Michigan and Michigan on September 5. The changes aim to standardize the process for adjustments to the game clock during replay reviews, addressing the confusion that arose in the final moments of the game at Michigan’s home stadium.

In the closing sequence, Western Michigan appeared to be securing a 12-7 upset when Michigan quarterback Bryce Underwood threw a Hail Mary pass into the end zone as time expired. However, officials ruled that a Western Michigan defender, who had stepped out of bounds, was the first player to touch the ball. Under NCAA rules, the game clock should have stopped the moment that occurred. After reviewing multiple synchronized timing feeds, Big Ten replay officials determined there was still one second remaining on the clock and permitted Michigan an additional play. On that final snap, Underwood completed another Hail Mary, leading to a dramatic 13-12 victory for Michigan.

The ruling sparked debate over which clock should be considered official and whether the replay officials applied the appropriate timing standards. In response, the NCAA issued a memo outlining a uniform protocol for replay reviews involving clock adjustments. According to the new guidance, the stadium clock remains the official timekeeper in all college football games. If the stadium clock fails, a designated official on the field is responsible for maintaining the official time. During replay reviews requiring clock restorations or adjustments, the decision will be based on the embedded game clock contained within the broadcast’s program feed. If an embedded clock is not available, officials will rely on the game-clock graphic visible in the broadcast. The NCAA emphasized these procedures must be applied consistently across all institutions and venues to ensure uniformity.

Meanwhile, the Mid-American Conference (MAC), which includes Western Michigan, has challenged the Big Ten replay officials’ handling of the situation. After initially accepting the Big Ten’s explanation, the MAC reversed its stance on September 8. MAC Commissioner John Steinbrecher stated that the conference had submitted formal appeals to both the NCAA FBS Oversight Committee and the College Football Playoff, arguing that proper protocol was not followed when adding the extra second. The MAC is requesting that Western Michigan be recognized as the rightful winner of the game for purposes of rankings, evaluations, and postseason considerations, and has asked for any corrective actions within the governing bodies’ authority.

While the NCAA’s updated replay procedure does not eliminate the ability to restore time during reviews, it seeks to reduce controversy by clarifying which timing sources should be used. However, this revision comes after the disputed game, leaving Western Michigan without an immediate remedy for the contentious outcome.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.