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NCAA Clarifies Replay Clock, Reversing WMU’s Losing Decision

9/9/2026

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Summary

Steinbrecher Appeals

MAC commissioner Jon Steinbrecher filed appeals with NCAA and CFP to declare Western Michigan the winner.
The Big Ten replay crew used an embedded broadcast clock instead of the program-feed clock in the end-game review.
The decision added one second, allowing Michigan a second Hail Mary that produced a 47-yard touchdown.
NCAA memo clarified that official time is the in-stadium clock and replay officials must use the embedded broadcast clock.

Summary

Taylor Accepts Blame

Coach Lance Taylor accepted responsibility for the loss and said clock-management needed improvement.
Taylor scheduled a leadership-council meeting and a team session on Sunday.
President Russ Kavalhuna held a press conference urging acceptance, unity and moving forward.
Broncos enter the season as MAC favorites after winning the 2025 conference title.
Western Michigan will host Monmouth next; coach Jeff Gallo calls it a redemption chance.

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Steinbrecher Appeals

MAC commissioner Jon Steinbrecher filed appeals with NCAA and CFP to declare Western Michigan the winner.
The Big Ten replay crew used an embedded broadcast clock instead of the program-feed clock in the end-game review.
The decision added one second, allowing Michigan a second Hail Mary that produced a 47-yard touchdown.
NCAA memo clarified that official time is the in-stadium clock and replay officials must use the embedded broadcast clock.

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