The Michigan Wolverines opened the season with a win, but it wasn't pretty—and it wasn't enough to keep them in the AP Top 25.
After a nail-biting 13-12 victory over Western Michigan, decided by a last-second Hail Mary, the AP voters have spoken: Michigan is out of the rankings heading into Week 2.
The Wolverines' escape was mired in controversy. As time expired, quarterback Bryce Underwood launched a 47-yard touchdown pass to JJ Buchanan, but only after the officials added an extra second to the clock—a decision that has sparked widespread debate. The Big Ten defended the call, stating that Western Michigan's defender had established an out-of-bounds position before the ball was caught, but critics remain unconvinced. The referees' explanation has been called "garbage" by some, and even NFL officials suggest the play would have been overturned in the pros.
The AP poll, however, was not swayed by the Big Ten's stance. Michigan's performance—marked by offensive struggles and a defense that nearly let the game slip away—was not enough to maintain a spot among the nation's elite teams.
Here's a look at the updated top 25 heading into Week 2:
- 1. Ohio State
- 2. Georgia
- 3. Notre Dame
- 4. Texas
- 5. Indiana
- 6. Oregon
- 7. Miami
- 8. LSU
- 9. Ole Miss
- 10. Texas A&M
- 11. Oklahoma
- 12. Alabama
- 13. Texas Tech
- 14. USC
- 15. BYU
- 16. Penn State
- 17. SMU
- 18. Tennessee
- 19. Washington
- 20. Utah
- 21. Iowa
- 22. Houston
- 23. Missouri
- 24. Louisville
- 25. Virginia
Michigan now faces a critical juncture. The Wolverines have a golden opportunity to bounce back next week when they host No. 11 Oklahoma. A win against the Sooners would likely be enough to earn a return to the AP poll.
But the schedule doesn't get easier. Later this month, Michigan welcomes Iowa to the Big House, and with the Hawkeyes currently ranked, another test awaits. The Wolverines' September slate is a minefield, and their early-season struggles have raised questions about their ability to compete at the highest level.
As the fallout from the controversial win continues, Michigan must focus on the field. With a talented roster and a chip on their shoulder, the Wolverines have the chance to prove the doubters wrong—but only if they can deliver a convincing performance when it matters most.
