Western Michigan president Russ Kavalhuna said there was nothing "unfair" about the Big Ten replay that added a second to the clock, leading to Michigan's game-winning touchdown in a 13-12 win over the Broncos. Kavalhuna spoke with Big Ten officials late Saturday, noting a discrepancy between what viewers saw and what replay officials reviewed. Michigan quarterback Bryce Underwood completed a Hail Mary pass after the extra second, with JJ Buchanan catching a 47-yard touchdown.

Western Michigan coach Lance Taylor emphasized his team’s resilience, refusing to blame officials for the loss. The Big Ten released a replay recording showing the clock at one second when safety Micah Davis touched the ball, confirming the ruling. Mid‑American Conference commissioner Jon Steinbrecher defended the review process, citing its integrity and proper procedure.

Despite the outcome, Taylor and Kavalhuna expressed confidence in the fairness of the decision and their focus on moving forward.