NBC says it's not 'official arbiter' of game clock after Michigan Hail Mary
NBC has clarified that its broadcast clock is not the official timekeeper for college football games following controversy over a Michigan win. The network stated that the Big Ten conference holds sole responsibility for official game timing and replay decisions.
Why it matters
This highlights the distinction between broadcast production elements and official officiating in professional and collegiate sports, addressing fan concerns regarding game integrity.
Hear this story NBC, which broadcasted Michigan's controversial win over Western Michigan on Sept. 5, released a statement via studio host John Fanta on Sept. 6, explaining its role in why an extra second was added to the game clock .
Wolverines quarterback Bryce Underwood threw a 47-yard touchdown pass to JJ Buchanan as time expired for the 13-12, potentially season-saving win. The play, though, came after officials ruled there was still a second left on game clock left after review, which came after the first Hail Mary attempted sailed out the back of the end zone.
Fanta said midway through the Washington-Washington State game — also broadcast on NBC on Sunday, Sept. 6 — that the network broadcast isn't the official timekeeper of the game. The TV broadcast clock appeared to be out of time, differentiating from the Big Ten's official game clock.
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