Underwood’s climb: Michigan QB getting closer to starter status

Michigan’s sophomore quarterback Bryce Underwood is positioned as the starter for the 2026 season after head coach Kyle Whittingham publicly praised his progress, saying he’s “getting closer” as fall camp approaches. Whittingham notes Underwood’s tools—a 6-4 frame and big arm—while acknowledging room for improvement in mechanics, footwork, pocket presence, and decision-making, partly due to not having a dedicated quarterbacks coach last year. The staff plans to tailor the offense to his strengths and will emphasize using his legs more, having rushed 88 times for 392 yards and 6 rushing TDs in 2025, including throws on the run. Freshman Tommy Carr provided competition in spring practice, but Underwood remains the frontrunner as Michigan eyes continued development through the offseason and into fall camp.