Michigan announced that freshman quarterback Bryce Underwood has exceeded expectations through his first four college games. The 18-year-old has shown poise that coaches didn’t anticipate from a first-year player.
Underwood threw for 251 yards in his debut against New Mexico. He followed that with 235 passing yards and several explosive runs against Central Michigan.
Even when Nebraska contained his production, coaching staff noted his composure under pressure.
Michigan’s coaching staff says Underwood doesn’t look like a typical freshman.
The quarterback’s development has progressed week by week. Oklahoma’s defense tested him in Week 2, exposing some early offensive issues.
He bounced back against Central Michigan by rushing effectively while maintaining his passing production. Nebraska limited his overall impact in Week 4, but coaches believe he’s still developing his full skill set.
Tight ends coach Steve Casula explained how Underwood’s mobility changes defensive planning.
“We’ve carried quarterback runs in some fashion in every game. When you run the quarterback, it’s like having a 12th guy on the field. There’s an extra gap for the defense to fit. There’s an extra ball carrier they have to account for.”
Casula said he’s been waiting for Underwood to show freshman mistakes.
“I’ve almost personally—to be candid: have been waiting for this moment to kind of look around like, ‘Yeah, well, he is just a freshman.’ It really hasn’t happened.”
The coach praised Underwood’s performance in hostile environments at Norman and Lincoln. He credited the offensive coaching staff for their preparation work.
“He’s revealed to us or shown us he’s willing to win any which way possible. He’s all in. He’s a team guy, but he’s really, really good, man. And I think probably I would imagine if you were to ask him, the game’s probably slowing down for him in some respect.”
Michigan faces Wisconsin’s top-ranked rushing defense next.
The matchup will test both Underwood’s passing accuracy and his developing running ability. Wisconsin currently leads the nation in run defense, creating a significant challenge for the freshman quarterback’s dual-threat capabilities.
