The 1892 Michigan vs. Oberlin football game is a notable match where both teams claimed victory. Michigan, coached by Frank Barbour, played a tough schedule and was led by fullback George Dygert and halfback George Jewett, Michigan's first black player. Oberlin, coached by John Heisman, went undefeated in 1892, claiming victory in this game. The game's controversy arose from timing disputes and differing interpretations of when the game ended.
The match ended with Oberlin leading 24-22 after scoring a touchdown and field goal. However, Oberlin left the field early to catch a train, believing the game was over, while Michigan claimed the game continued, scoring an unopposed touchdown to win 26-24.
Both sides provided conflicting accounts, with Michigan's umpire Prettyman supporting their claim and Oberlin disputing the timing and fairness.
Newspaper reports from both teams reflect their perspectives. Michigan's U of M Daily emphasized the game continued until Jewett's touchdown, while Oberlin's review insisted the game ended at the agreed time, declaring their 24-22 victory. The dispute highlights early football's lack of standardized officiating, with biases from team-affiliated officials. Despite the game's peculiar ending, it remains a remarkable piece of college football history.