Let’s just be honest—can the hype be any greater for Michigan quarterback Bryce Underwood? The five-star prospect hasn’t even touched the field for his first college game, yet he’s already earning grandiose recognition. With a spotlight shining brightly on him, Underwood is set to become one of the most talked-about players in college football this season.
Underwood’s Journey to Michigan
Underwood’s path to Michigan is nothing short of remarkable. Once committed to LSU, he was lured to Ann Arbor by the magnetic personalities of former Wolverines quarterback Tom Brady and Barstool’s Dave Portnoy. This kind of recruitment is rare, and it speaks volumes about the potential Underwood brings to the Wolverines. Michigan fans are eagerly anticipating what he will bring to the field, especially after a lackluster offensive performance last season.
Setting Records Before Taking the Field
Ranked as the No. 1 overall prospect in the 2025 recruiting cycle, Underwood has already made waves off the field as well. He reportedly earned over $10 million in NIL deals, a staggering figure that underscores his marketability and talent. As if that weren’t enough, Underwood is the first recruit ever to earn a 100 rating from On3, a feat that adds to the already high expectations surrounding him.
Comparisons to NFL Stars
The buzz around Underwood doesn’t stop at his accolades. He’s already being compared to some of the most notable quarterbacks in the game today. "The combination of size, arm talent, and athleticism is reminiscent of players like Josh Allen and Cam Newton," says Charles Power from On3. This kind of praise sets a high bar, but it also highlights the unique skill set Underwood brings to the table.
What to Expect This Season
So, what can fans expect from Underwood in his freshman year? According to 247Sports’ Clint Brewster, "All eyes will be on Underwood at Michigan because of his exciting running and passing skills." Brewster believes that it will be impossible to keep Underwood off the field, drawing parallels to other talented freshman signal-callers like Terrelle Pryor and Jalen Hurts.
Both Pryor and Hurts were at the top of their recruiting classes, with Pryor being the No. 1 overall in 2008 and Hurts the No. 1 dual-threat quarterback in 2016. Each quarterback had immediate success as freshmen—Pryor led Ohio State to a 10-3 season, while Hurts helped Alabama to a 14-1 campaign, with their only loss in the national championship game. Can Underwood replicate that kind of success?
The Challenge Ahead
For Underwood, the challenge is significant. He steps into a Michigan offense that struggled mightily in 2024, ranking 113th in scoring with just 22 points per game. Even more concerning, the Wolverines ranked 131st in passing, averaging only 129.1 yards per game. This is a tall order for a freshman, but Underwood has the talent and the drive to turn things around.
Fans are optimistic, but they also understand the weight of expectations. Will Underwood be able to revive a struggling offense and lead the Wolverines back to prominence in the Big Ten? The excitement is palpable, and the anticipation is building as the season approaches.
The Michigan Fanbase’s Hope
Michigan fans are hoping the hype is worth it. They’ve seen what elite quarterbacks can do for a program, and they’re ready for Underwood to take the reins. The pressure is on, but so is the potential for greatness. Underwood has the chance to become a household name, and with it, he could elevate the entire Michigan program.
As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on Underwood. Will he live up to the lofty expectations? Can he transform a struggling offense into a powerhouse? The answers to these questions will not only shape his future but also the future of Michigan football.
In a world where college football is as much about the spectacle as it is about the game, Bryce Underwood is poised to be a star. The stage is set, and the excitement is in the air. Will he rise to the occasion? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure: Michigan fans are ready for the ride.
