NCAA issues new time-keeping guidance in wake of controversial Michigan win
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The NCAA has issued new time-keeping guidance following Week 1’s controversial finish between Western Michigan and Michigan.
On Tuesday, ESPN obtained a copy of the memo from NCAA national coordinator of officials Ron Snodgrass explaining the new standards.
“The official time for all college football games is the time displayed on the in-stadium game clock,” the memo reportedly said. “When a replay review requires time to be restored or otherwise adjusted, the replay official’s decision will be based on the embedded game clock contained within the program feed. If the broadcaster is unable to provide an embedded game clock, the replay official will use the game-clock graphic displayed as part of the broadcast feed… this timing protocol should be followed consistently at all institutions and game sites.”
Had these rules been in place prior to the start of the season, the Wolverines would not have been given the extra second that resulted in their Hail Mary against the Broncos. As a result, Western Michigan would have defeated Michigan 12-7.
MAC commissioner Jon A. Steinbrecher officially requested that the NCAA overturn the Wolverines-Broncos result on Tuesday. He also asked the College Football Playoff selection committee to recognize Western Michigan as the “actual winner” during “its evaluation and deliberations.”
