Updated
Updated · USA TODAY · Sep 6
NBC Says 1 Second in Michigan Win Came From Big Ten Clock, Not Broadcast Feed
Updated
Updated · USA TODAY · Sep 6

NBC Says 1 Second in Michigan Win Came From Big Ten Clock, Not Broadcast Feed

3 articles · Updated · USA TODAY · Sep 6

Summary

  • John Fanta said NBC's on-screen clock was not the official time source after Michigan's 13-12 win over Western Michigan turned on officials restoring 1 second before a final Hail Mary.
  • Big Ten officials said the NBC broadcast clock and the conference's replay-center clock were out of sync, and replay staff used a direct stadium-clock shot alongside the play to make the ruling.
  • Bryce Underwood then hit JJ Buchanan for a 47-yard touchdown as time expired, delivering a potentially season-saving Michigan win after the first Hail Mary flew out the back of the end zone.
  • Terry McAuley said an out-of-sync clock was the only explanation for adding time, while NBC and the Big Ten released video and audio to defend a process whose technical differences remain unclear.

Insights

How did a hidden technical glitch between TV and stadium clocks decide the fate of a dramatic Michigan football game?
If NCAA rules lack clear timing standards, could a simple broadcast clock error rewrite the ending of future college football games?