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Kyle Whittingham.

Big Ten Football

Michigan beats Western Michigan with stunning Hail Mary after controversy

Spenser Davis

By Spenser Davis

Published:


Michigan defeated Western Michigan in controversial fashion on Saturday night.

Trailing 12-7, the Wolverines appeared to run out of time in their comeback bid when Bryce Underwood’s Hail Mary sailed over the end zone with the clock showing zeroes.

However, officials put 1 second back on the clock after reviewing the play โ€” and Underwood took full advantage. Underwood threw a perfect pass to JJ Buchanan, who held on to the ball as he crossed the plane.

Here’s the game-winner that will be discussed for years to come in the Great Lake State:

With that play, Michigan avoids what would have been a tremendously-embarrassing loss. The Wolverines were favored by 27.5 points and are set to host SEC foe Oklahoma next weekend.

Whether or not there should have been a second added on to the clock may be addressed by the NCAA or the Big Ten at some point. The broadcast clock on NBC appeared to expire prior to Underwood’s first Hail Mary attempt hitting the ground:

Michigan will still have plenty of concerns to address moving forward, but at least will salvage the win as it looks to get back to CFP contention.

Michigan is now 9-0 all-time against Western Michigan.

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Spenser Davis

Spenser is a news editor for Saturday Down South and covers college football across all Saturday Football brands.

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