The Michigan Wolverines emerged victorious in a competitive bidding war for the top recruit of the 2025 class, landing quarterback Bryce Underwood. This move prompted differing opinions among college football coaches, with some critics questioning the decision.
Underwood secured a substantial NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deal estimated at $10 million, earning him nearly $3 million per season at Michigan. The results of the investment in the 2025 season seemed less fruitful as Underwood, a freshman from Detroit, Michigan, achieved mixed results. He threw for 2,428 yards, with 11 touchdowns and nine interceptions, completing 60.3% of his passes. Additionally, he gained 392 rushing yards and scored six touchdowns on 88 carries, contributing to Michigan’s 9-4 record.
Some critique targeted Michigan’s recently appointed head coach, Kyle Whittingham, regarding his staff’s development capabilities. A coach slated to compete against Underwood shared harsh opinions with ESPN’s Adam Rittenberg, saying, “He’s a good head coach, but in 21 years, they haven’t had a quarterback drafted. Just because you pay somebody money doesn’t make them good. There’s going to be a little reality check on that.”
A Big Ten defensive coordinator also highlighted the pressure Underwood faces due to his lucrative salary. According to the coordinator, the expectations stemming from high recruiting fees contributed to mixed reviews. “The only reason there’s mixed reviews, and they’re not talking about him still being young, is because of the expectations coming out of recruiting,” the coach stated. “We’ve really put a bull’s-eye on a lot of these kids because of the exorbitant amount that they’re paying them.”
Underwood’s challenges were apparent during Michigan’s 27-9 loss to Ohio State, where he completed only eight of 18 passes for 63 yards and one interception. He added one rushing yard from six attempts. Another inconsistent performance took place in the Citrus Bowl against Texas, where he threw for 199 yards, two touchdowns, and three interceptions.
Despite the setbacks, Underwood’s future remains promising as he enters his sophomore season. He may mature into a formidable quarterback under Whittingham’s guidance. Nevertheless, Underwood’s situation serves as a cautionary tale for programs to avoid excessive spending on freshmen based solely on high school hype. Some players struggle to transition to the college level, suggesting funds could be more effectively allocated elsewhere on the roster.
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