Ann Arbor, Mich. — College football fans in Ann Arbor witnessed a heart‑stopping finish on Saturday night when No. 16 Michigan edged Western Michigan 13‑12 thanks to a last‑second Hail Mary play. Quarterback Bryce Underwood, who had already seen his first attempt fall incomplete as the clock expired, was given a second chance by officials after a review showed the game clock hit zero before the ball left the field.
With just seconds remaining, Underwood launched a deep pass down the middle of the field. Wide receiver JJ Buchanan rose above the Western Michigan defenders, securing the ball at the 47‑yard line and sprinting into the end zone for the decisive touchdown. The play turned a potential loss into a narrow victory, preserving Michigan’s top‑25 ranking and keeping the Wolverines’ season on track.
Game context and key moments
The Broncos entered the game as 27½‑point underdogs, and many expected a comfortable win for the Wolverines. Michigan’s defense held Western Michigan to just 12 points, while the offense struggled early, managing only a field goal before the final drive. The first Hail Mary attempt by Underwood was ruled incomplete after the clock appeared to run out, prompting a brief review.
Officials determined that the clock had indeed reached zero before the ball hit a Western Michigan defender’s hands, but they also noted that one second remained on the official game clock. That extra second allowed Underwood to line up for a second throw, which resulted in the game‑winning play.
Impact on the Wolverines
Coach Jim Harbaugh praised his team’s resilience, noting that the win demonstrated “the heart and perseverance that define Michigan football.” The victory improves Michigan’s record to 4‑0 and keeps the Wolverines in contention for a Big Ten championship run.
For Western Michigan, the loss was a disappointment but the Broncos showed they could compete with a top‑ranked opponent. Coach Tim Lester highlighted the team’s effort, saying, “We fought hard and will learn from this experience.”
What’s next for both programs?
Michigan’s next matchup is against a conference rival, offering another test of the Wolverines’ ability to close out tight games. Western Michigan will look to bounce back in their upcoming conference schedule, hoping to translate the lessons from this close loss into future victories.
The dramatic finish will be remembered by Ann Arbor fans as a testament to the excitement of college football and the unwavering support of the community for their team.
Original reporting: WESH Orlando — read the source article.
