MAC Challenges Michigan Win, Big Ten Fires Back

The Big Ten is refusing to back down from a replay decision that granted Michigan an extra opportunity in their 13-12 win over Western Michigan. Shortly after the Mid-American Conference questioned the replay procedure used during the final moments of the game, the Big Ten released a brief statement on Tuesday reaffirming their stance. A spokesperson for the conference emphasized that their position remains unchanged. <source c9cf7eb9-32b>

This response follows statements from MAC Commissioner Jon Steinbrecher, who revealed that a more in-depth review found the Big Ten replay team did not adhere to the established protocol when considering if one second should have been added. The MAC contends the replay officials should have used the clock from the program feed instead of the clock embedded within the Big Ten replay system. <source c9cf7eb9-32b>

This distinction is crucial as it alters the argument surrounding Michigan's last-second victory. Initially, the Big Ten explained the final second based on video evidence showing Western Michigan defensive back Micah Davis touching the football out of bounds with one second left on the clock. However, the MAC now challenges whether the clock used in the decision-making process was the correct one.

According to the MAC, employing the required program-feed clock would have resulted in no additional play and a final score of 12-7 in favor of Western Michigan. The conference has formally appealed to the NCAA FBS Oversight Committee and College Football Playoff, requesting Western Michigan be recognized as the winner for ranking, evaluation, and selection purposes. <source c9cf7eb9-32b>

Nevertheless, Michigan's 13-12 triumph remains intact. The controversy started when Bryce Underwood's last-second pass seemingly expired the clock with Western Michigan leading 12-7. After the replay officials restored one second, Underwood had another chance to throw the game-winning Hail Mary, which was caught by JJ Buchanan for a 47-yard touchdown.

Western Michigan had initially agreed to move on after learning there was no conventional appeals process. The MAC's announcement on Tuesday significantly shifts the dispute to the NCAA and College Football Playoff. <source c9cf7eb9-32b>

The Big Ten has stood by its replay officials and its original explanation, publicly indicating there will be no further comments. The dispute has now moved outside the conference.