The Big Ten is opening the doors to its replay process much wider, and the timing is difficult to separate from the controversy that followed Michigan’s last-second escape against Western Michigan.
Beginning Saturday, television broadcasts from Big Ten venues using Big Ten replay and on-field officials will be permitted to show live audio between the referee and replay official, the video being examined during the review and a view inside the Big Ten Replay Center. The conference expanded its replay access Wednesday, extending a program that had been limited primarily to Friday night games.
The announcement comes four days after replay officials restored one second to Michigan’s game against Western Michigan, allowing Bryce Underwood to throw the 47-yard touchdown pass to JJ Buchanan that turned a 12-7 loss into a 13-12 victory.
Michigan Controversy Put Replay Process Under a Microscope
The Big Ten had already planned to give viewers greater access to replay conversations in 2026. Its original Sept. 1 announcement applied the enhanced presentation to selected Friday night games, including Michigan State’s opener against Toledo…