Michigan football Hail Mary winner questioned as time appeared to run out

The Michigan Wolverines opened their 2026 season with a controversial 13-12 victory over Western Michigan on Saturday night, September 6, 2026. The win was secured by a Hail Mary touchdown, but significant controversy arose as the clock appeared to have expired before the play was completed. The last-second score raised questions about the officiating and the validity of the game-winning play.