Well, Bryce Underwood wasn’t just the biggest name in the 2025 recruiting class—he was an earthquake in the whole recruiting market. His flip from LSU to Michigan already sent shockwaves, but this time? He woke up and chose warfare. The Ohio State-Michigan rivalry is more than a game; it’s a lifelong feud, and Underwood has become a prominent participant in the ‘we hate Bucks club’. But his actions didn’t end there; he threw a haymaker straight at LeBron James, with a harsh criticism giving the Buckeyes’ biggest fan a hard reality check.

Let’s get it straight: the five-star Michigan QB Bryce Underwood isn’t wasting time before throwing shade at Ohio State – even before NBA star and die-hard Buckeyes fan – LeBron James. During an appearance on the Rich Eisen Show, Bryce Underwood got a chance to meet with LeBron James following a Lakers-Clippers game in Los Angeles. Since he shares the same agency with James Harden, he got access to the players’ parking garage. And waited for LeBron to show up. Initially, Underwood was speechless. But then? He made a point to bring up a sore subject for the Buckeyes fans by mentioning their losing history against Michigan, saying, “It’s over for Ohio State.” And that’s where the controversy began.

Now, if you didn’t know, Rich Eisen is a Michigan alum, but LeBron James? He’s all scarlet and gray. He reps for the Bucks every chance he gets, right behind the Lakers. So when Bryce Underwood drops such a bold comment straight to LeBron’s face, it is some next-level confidence. But Number One College Football Show host RJ Young isn’t calling the move too cocky. As he thinks, Underwood is just spitting facts. He supports Underwood’s stance, saying,

“I think that’s really outstanding and cool. I also think it’s quite a leap for a dude that ain’t played one down of football yet in college football. Look, I, of all people, love confidence. I love confidence bordering on arrogance… If you’re going to go out here and cut a promo, cut your promo, son. I think he believes this in his heart of hearts, though, which is going to make this even more interesting when Ohio State and Michigan play.” Even though it’s surprising coming from a player who still hasn’t made a single snap in CFB, when we go back in time, it all makes sense.

Michigan has dominated Ohio State since 2021, winning every matchup and leaving the Buckeyes searching for an advantage. While Ohio State did secure a national title, its first in the CFP era since 2014, the impact of four consecutive Michigan victories was significant. Even Buckeye fans acknowledged this reality.

Remember the backlash when they resorted to extreme measures? Sending d—h threats to Ryan Day and harassing his family following another loss? And that’s exactly what RJ Young is saying, “So, I don’t see anything Bryce Underwood is saying except what has been absolutely positively factual, actual, factual facts about what it is that Michigan has been doing to Ohio State.”

Let’s not forget that Michigan faced challenges last season in solidifying its key position: the starting QB role. After a period of uncertainty, Davis Warren eventually stepped up, providing the team with much-needed stability. On the other hand, teams with talented QBs like Jalen Milroe and Will Howard struggled to overcome Michigan. Despite the odds, Michigan consistently found ways to secure victories. Even RJ Young highlighted the same thing, saying, “We beat Alabama without a starting quarterback, and we beat you without a starting quarterback.” But that’s not the only thing putting Bryce Underwood up in the headlines!

Bryce Underwood’s exceptional future

The future has arrived in style as Bryce Underwood, Michigan’s highly anticipated five-star quarterback, graces the cover of EA Sports College Football 26. But the twist? The kid hasn’t even played any college game yet. Underwood is already making waves in the gaming world alongside notable players like DJ Lagway from Florida, Garrett Nussmeier from LSU, and Jeremiyah Love from Notre Dame.

Even the coaches’ edition also features renowned names like Ryan Day, Lane Kiffin, Kirby Smart, James Franklin, Dan Lanning, and Kenny Dillingham, building up the excitement for CFB 26. Amidst all the stars, Underwood shines bright. Following a week in Los Angeles for the cover shoot at the iconic Rose Bowl, he joins the ranks of Michigan legends Denard Robinson and Charles Woodson as a cover athlete for this highly anticipated college football game. This rare honor cements his position as a prominent figure in the sport’s future, marking a historic moment even before his college debut.

While some of the other cover athletes are new to the college game, Underwood’s selection highlights his potential for greatness across generations. Underwood bagged the Gatorade Michigan Player of the Year honor as a junior in 2023. He then led his Belleville HS to a 10-2 record and the state regional semifinals as a senior in 2024. Threw for 2,509 yards with 32 touchdowns and 6 interceptions while completing over 71.8% of his passes. He added over 600 rushing yards and 6 more TDs. His influence and talent transcend the field, making him a household name among college football enthusiasts.

This is just the beginning for Underwood. As ESPN’s top recruit in the 2025 class, he is not only the future of Michigan but also the next big star in college football. The opportunity to showcase his abilities on a grand stage will soon arrive. On November 29, during the anticipated Michigan versus Ohio State showdown, we eagerly await to see if Underwood can back up his “it’s over” claims against the Buckeyes.