Michigan football defeats Western Michigan 13-12 on last-second touchdown

Michigan opened its football season at Michigan Stadium on September 5, 2026, by defeating Western Michigan 13-12. The game concluded with a walk-off 47-yard Hail Mary touchdown pass from the Wolverines to JJ Buchanan, who finished the game with 126 receiving yards on six catches. This game served as the coaching debut for Kyle Whittingham at Michigan. Defensive end Dominic Nichols recorded nine tackles and 1.5 sacks in the win, while linebacker Troy Bowles led the team with 12 tackles. Cornerback Jyaire Hill added seven tackles and one pass deflection. Western Michigan quarterback Broc Lowry led the Broncos' offense in the narrow loss.

• 1:00 PMYahoo Sports — Handing out 4 game balls from Michigan Football’s win vs WMU