Michigan Bench Underwood, Promote Carr for First Start vs. No. 6 Indiana
Michigan true freshman quarterback Tommy Carr is set to make his first career start against No. 6 Indiana on Saturday, replacing Bryce Underwood after a successful second-half performance against Penn State. While head coach Kyle Whittingham declined to publicly confirm the starter, multiple outlets report the decision is effectively made. Carr’s promotion follows Underwood’s struggles with turnovers and inconsistent play, while Carr’s ability to run and throw accurately has revitalized the offense. The move raises questions about Underwood’s future, with reports suggesting he may enter the transfer portal.
Key points
- Tommy Carr, a 6-foot-4, 195-pound true freshman and grandson of former Michigan coach Lloyd Carr, is expected to start against Indiana on October 24.
- Carr replaced Bryce Underwood at halftime against Penn State, leading three scoring drives and rushing for a 12-yard, game-clinching touchdown in a 21-18 win.
- Underwood, who started 19 consecutive games, has thrown six interceptions and completed only 58.1% of his passes this season.
- Coach Kyle Whittingham stated he has a 'good plan' at quarterback but refused to name the starter to avoid tipping off opponents.
- Indiana coach Curt Cignetti expects Carr to start and noted that Michigan’s defense ranks No. 4 nationally.
Background
Michigan’s offense has struggled all season, ranking 105th in scoring and 119th in long pass plays. Underwood, a former five-star recruit, has faced criticism for inconsistency despite his physical talent. Carr previously played limited minutes against UTEP, where he completed two passes for a touchdown. The team’s recent 21-18 win over Penn State ended a three-game losing streak and improved their record to 4-2.
How outlets are covering it
CBS Sports emphasizes the financial and developmental implications of benching Underwood, noting that Michigan invested significant NIL money in him and that his struggles may lead to a transfer portal move. The Detroit Free Press highlights the on-field chemistry, quoting running back Savion Hiter on Carr’s arm strength and composure. The Detroit News focuses on the tactical uncertainty, noting that Indiana coach Curt Cignetti expects to see both quarterbacks, while Whittingham has historically opposed platooning. Maize n Brew underscores the narrative of Carr’s rapid rise from backup to starter, contrasting his immediate impact with Underwood’s prolonged struggles.
Why it matters
This quarterback change signals a pivotal shift in Michigan’s offensive strategy, moving from a high-risk, high-reward approach with Underwood to a more conservative, efficient system with Carr. The outcome against a top-10 opponent like Indiana will determine whether this is a permanent change or a temporary adjustment. Additionally, the decision impacts the future of a highly recruited player in the NIL era, setting a precedent for how programs handle underperforming star recruits.
What to watch
Michigan will face No. 6 Indiana on Saturday, October 24, at Michigan Stadium. If Carr performs well, he is likely to retain the starting role for the remainder of the season. Underwood’s status remains uncertain, with reports suggesting he may seek a new opportunity via the transfer portal this offseason. The next game after Indiana is against Rutgers on Halloween.
- Report: Michigan Football QB Tommy Carr to make first career start vs Indiana Maize n Brew
- Michigan starting QB Tommy Carr vs. Indiana: What's next for Bryce Underwood? CBS Sports
- Tommy Carr will reportedly start for Michigan football vs Indiana Detroit Free Press
- Indiana's Curt Cignetti thinks he knows who Michigan will start at QB The Detroit News
- Kyle Whittingham reveals why TE Zack Marshall didn’t play vs Penn State Maize n Brew
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