Michigan Stuns Western Michigan 13-12 on 47-Yard TD Pass With 1 Second Left
Updated
Updated · ESPN · Sep 6
Michigan Stuns Western Michigan 13-12 on 47-Yard TD Pass With 1 Second Left
3 articles · Updated · ESPN · Sep 6
Summary
1 second remained after a review, and Bryce Underwood hit JJ Buchanan for a 47-yard touchdown to lift Michigan past Western Michigan 13-12 in its opener.
Western Michigan had grabbed a 12-7 lead with 35 seconds left on Dieter Kelly’s fourth field goal after forcing an Underwood fumble at Michigan’s 31-yard line.
Underwood finished 12-of-22 for 170 yards with 1 passing touchdown, 1 interception and 1 lost fumble, while adding 47 rushing yards and a 1-yard rushing score.
Buchanan caught 6 passes for 126 yards and the winner, rescuing a Michigan debut under new coach Kyle Whittingham that was nearly undone by 9 penalties for 80 yards and multiple turnovers.
The escape came after Western Michigan controlled long stretches, including a 20-play, 71-yard drive lasting 13:40, but settled for four Kelly field goals instead of a touchdown.
After escaping a near-upset, can Kyle Whittingham fix Michigan’s glaring offensive struggles before facing tougher Big Ten opponents?
How will Dominic Nichols' breakout defensive performance shape Michigan's strategy as they navigate a challenging path to the College Football Playoff?