NCAA Releases Statement on Michigan's Controversial Win vs. WMU After Rules 'Were Not Followed'

The NCAA issued a statement Wednesday saying the rules officials erred in adding one second to the clock in Michigan's 13-12 victory over Western Michigan.

"The committee consulted with national officiating leadership regarding the instant replay protocols," the NCAA said. "Based on that information, the committee agreed that the instant replay protocols were not followed in the contest's second-to-last play. Had the protocols been followed, the outcome of the game would have been different."

Regardless of the mistake, the outcome from the game is final and won't be overturned.

Pretty much every college football fan is aware of what happened in Ann Arbor, Michigan, on Sept. 5.

Wolverines quarterback Bryce Underwood's Hail Mary attempt fell incomplete as time expired. Officials reviewed the final play, though, and determined one second remained. With a redo, Underwood hit JJ Buchanan in the end zone.

The Big Ten shared video showing Western Michigan safety Micah Davis touching the ball first with one second remaining.

At issue was the fact the clock shown on the NBC broadcast wasn't synced up with what was the official game clock.

ESPN's Jake Trotter reported on Sept. 8 the NCAA provided new guidance on a "standard timing protocol."

"When a replay review requires time to be restored or otherwise adjusted, the replay official's decision will be based on the embedded game clock contained within the program feed," the NCAA memo said. "If the broadcaster is unable to provide an embedded game clock, the replay official will use the game-clock graphic displayed as part of the broadcast feed."

Trotter noted that Western Michigan would've won if that rule had been in place for the Michigan game.

MAC commissioner Jon Steinbrecher sought to have the NCAA and College Football Playoff recognize the Broncos as the victors.

The NCAA won't be taking that step, and one presumes the CFP will follow suit.