Michigan just avoided what would have been their worst loss since that infamous 2007 upset by Appalachian State, needing a literal last-second miracle to beat Western Michigan 13-12. This wasn’t some dominant victory, folks, this was a jaw-dropping Hail Mary from Bryce Underwood to JJ Buchanan as time expired, saving the Wolverines from absolute embarrassment.
One Second. One Prayer. Total Chaos.
Can you even believe what went down in Michigan Stadium? The Wolverines looked dead in the water, staring down a shocking defeat. But then, officials reviewed the previous play, tossed one second back on the clock, and gifted Kyle Whittingham’s team another shot. Underwood, man, he bought just enough time, chucked the ball into a sea of defenders, and somehow, Buchanan came down with it. The sideline emptied, Western Michigan players were just standing there in pure disbelief. It was heartbreak for the Broncos, who were one second from their first win against Michigan in nine tries and the biggest victory of coach Lance Taylor’s career. Instead, Michigan escaped, but that unbelievable finish is totally overshadowing an offensive performance that was, well, rough.
Yeah, They Won. But at What Cost?
Look, Michigan did not look sharp. They did not look comfortable. And that’s putting it mildly. Jason Beck, in his debut as offensive coordinator, tried to scheme up easy yardage, but the execution was just not there all night. Underwood’s footwork was off, his timing was inconsistent, and he missed several what should have been “layup” throws. We all knew there’d be some growing pains as he got comfortable in Beck’s new offense, but honestly, his performance floor looks way lower than anyone around the program expected. Beck’s system asks a ton from the quarterback, before and after the snap. Timing, protection checks, route combos, knowing when to attack vertically,all that stuff needs to be second nature. Underwood is physically gifted, sure, he was the No. 1 overall recruit for a reason, but comfort in a new scheme comes from reps, not just raw talent. Whittingham was rubbing his eyes and bending over with his hands on his knees after the fifth straight third-down failure in the second quarter. That frustration said it all. It was a total slog, man, with zero signs of escape until that final play.
Now, No. 9 Oklahoma is looming next on the schedule. Can Michigan fix these glaring flaws before facing a top-tier opponent? Because if they play like they did against Western Michigan, even miracles won’t save them next week. This team has a lot to figure out, fast.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by CBS Sports.
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