NBC clarifies timekeeping role after Michigan victory over Western Michigan

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Sep 6, 2026, 10:09 PM

Last updated Sep 6, 2026

NBC clarifies timekeeping role after Michigan victory over Western Michigan
Summary

NBC stated its broadcast clocks are not the official arbiter of time for Big Ten games following a disputed finish in Michigan's 13-12 win over Western Michigan. Officials added one second back to the game clock after an initial incomplete Hail Mary attempt appeared to expire, allowing Michigan to attempt a successful game-winning pass. Replays on the NBC broadcast showed 0:00 on the clock during the play, but Big Ten official records indicated one second remained. Rules analyst Terry McAuley noted a potential synchronization issue between the broadcast ticker and the official game clock during the preceding drive. Western Michigan president Russ Kavalhuna and coach Lance Taylor released a statement confirming they accept the final outcome of the game. Taylor emphasized that the officiating decision did not determine the result of the contest.

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By the Numbers
  • Michigan defeated Western Michigan 13-12 on a final-play Hail Mary.
  • Officials added one second to the game clock before the final scoring play.
  • NBC confirmed the Big Ten remains solely responsible for official game timekeeping.
  • Western Michigan officials accepted the game outcome despite the late clock adjustment.
Latest Updates
  • 10:09 PMYahoo SportsNBC says its cameras 'are not the official arbiter of timekeeping' after officials added 1 second back for Michigan's miracle Hail Mary
What they're saying
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The Big Ten released a video late Saturday night showing there was a second remaining on the game clock on Michigan's first Hail Mary attempt.

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