Bryce Underwood turned Michiganâs apparent defeat into a 13â12 victory over Western Michigan on Saturday night, finding JJ Buchanan for a 47-yard touchdown on the final play. But the throw that decided the season opener only became possible after officials restored one second to the clock.
The finish gave Kyle Whittingham a winning start as Michiganâs head coach and left Western Michigan facing a particularly painful ending in Ann Arbor. The Broncos had been one ruling away from celebrating an upset.
According to the Associated Press report carried by WRAL, Underwoodâs earlier Hail Mary attempt went out of bounds with the clock appearing to have expired. Michigan then received another opportunity following a review.
The extra second that changed Michiganâs result
Western Michigan led 12â7 after Dieter Kellyâs 33-yard field goal with 35 seconds remaining. Michigan had no timeouts, leaving Underwood needing a touchdown on a hurried final possession.
Officials put one second back on the clock after the unsuccessful deep throw. Underwood used the additional play to launch the winning pass to Buchanan.
SB Nation reported that NBC rules analyst Terry McAulay questioned the timing evidence behind the review. The decision became a central talking point alongside the catch itself.
A Hail Mary is a long, low-percentage throw toward the end zone, typically attempted when a team has little time left and needs a touchdown. Here, the chance to attempt another one proved decisive.
Underwoodâs winning throw leaves bigger questions
Underwood finished 12-of-22 for 170 passing yards, one touchdown and one interception, according to ESPNâs box score.
The dramatic finish did not erase concerns about Michiganâs offense. Maize n Brewâs reaction roundup highlighted frustration over missed opportunities, penalties and inconsistent execution. Michiganâs defense helped keep the game within reach while the offense struggled to establish momentum.
That makes this opener more complicated than a simple Underwood redemption story. His final pass supplied the winning moment, but Michigan still has to turn isolated big plays into sustained offensive production.
There is already added interest in Michiganâs meeting with Oklahoma, including former Wolverines linebacker Cole Sullivanâs move to the Sooners. The opening escape gives Michigan a win to build on, along with plenty to address.
For Western Michigan, the narrow margin will offer little immediate comfort. For Michigan, the lasting image is Buchananâs touchdown catch â and the clock review that made it possible.
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