Western Michigan university leadership addresses controversial clock ruling in Michigan loss

2 sources1 min read • Latest: Sep 6, 2026, 8:20 PM

Last updated Sep 6, 2026

Western Michigan university leadership addresses controversial clock ruling in Michigan loss
Summary

Western Michigan football head coach Lance Taylor and university president Russ Kavalhuna held a news conference on Sunday to address the team's 13-12 loss to Michigan. The game concluded after officials added one second back to the clock following a review of a late-game heave by Michigan quarterback Bryce Underwood. That final second allowed JJ Buchanan to catch a 47-yard pass for the winning score, overturning what would have been a significant upset. While the school officials acknowledged frustration with the outcome, they confirmed the decision followed the protocols provided by the Big Ten and MAC. Kavalhuna stated that while the officiating process was transparent, no appeal mechanism exists for such decisions in the current conference structure. Taylor emphasized that the coaching staff remains focused on team improvement rather than dwelling on the final sequence.

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By the Numbers
  • Michigan defeated Western Michigan 13-12 on a 47-yard touchdown pass as time expired.
  • Officials restored one second to the clock after reviewing a play that initially appeared to end the game.
  • Western Michigan president Russ Kavalhuna confirmed there is no formal appeal process for the decision.
  • Coach Lance Taylor indicated the team intends to focus on future performance rather than contesting the officiating.
  • The Broncos entered the contest as four-touchdown underdogs before maintaining a significant advantage in time of possession.
Latest Updates
  • 8:20 PMYahoo SportsWMU's plan to recover from Michigan loss: Get better, not bitter
What they're saying
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Western Michigan football coach Lance Taylor and president Russ Kavalhuna took the high road when they discussed Saturday's controversial finish.

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