Well, it looks like Michigan’s quarterback misery might finally be over after last year’s misery. Thanks to Bryce Underwood’s move to Ann Arbor. Now, ever since he got there, there’s just one debate raging on: Can a true freshman really be Sherrone Moore’s guy? Things were pretty positive until Moore brought in Mikey Keene from Fresno State, adding more fuel to the fire. But now? Looks like we’ve got our answer. After all, you don’t throw a double-digit million-dollar bag at a guy just to let him warm the benches, right?

Bryce Underwood’s $10.5 million NIL deal sent shockwaves through college football, culminating in his surprising decision to move to Michigan instead of LSU. That’s serious money, and fans are debating it; a team doesn’t spend that kind of cash on a player who’ll ride the bench. Even On3’s J.D. PicKell talks about the same stance but with a twist. “I would make sure we remember during that whole discussion is just because you pay the guy a lot of money doesn’t mean he’s ready to play. You can pay Bryce Underwood as much money as you want, and just because you throw money at the guy doesn’t mean that he’s going to be a better quarterback for you when it comes time to go play Oklahoma at Oklahoma.” That’s a true fact: No amount of money can determine the future of a player who hasn’t played a single snap in CFB, and putting all the pressure on a freshman is a risky move.

Let’s be real: in 2020, D.J. Uiagalelei arrived at Clemson with high expectations, taking over for Trevor Lawrence and securing significant NIL deals with Dr. Pepper and Bojangles. The hype surrounding him was immense as Clemson started at #3 with Uiagalelei expected to continue the team’s success. But in Week 1 against #5 Georgia, things took a turn for the worse.

Uiagalelei’s performance was disappointing, with 19 completions out of 37 attempts for 178 yards, no touchdowns, and a costly interception returned for a touchdown—the only score of the game. Clemson suffered a 10-3 loss, and just like that, the hype surrounding Uiagalelei came crashing down. This game highlighted the fact that talent and performance, not just big-money deals and endorsements, determine a player’s success.

But here’s the kicker – J.D. PicKell believes that Bryce Underwood might be the one for Michigan because of his strong physique and impressive gameplay, which potentially makes him Sherrone Moore’s go-to player in week one. “So what I’m trying to say here is I think Bryce Underwood will get the benefit of the doubt in a lot of situations. I think he will get every opportunity to start for Michigan. And I think, just overall, now you take money out of it; I think he does end up being your guy here in Game 1. I’ve said it multiple times; I’ll say it again: I think he is too freaky physically.” And that’s exactly why he is the most prized weapon of Michigan.

Last season, Bryce Underwood led Belleville to a 10-2 record and a run to the state regional semifinals. He showcased his skills by passing for 2,509 yards, 32 touchdowns, and only 6 interceptions with an impressive completion rate of 71.8%. Plus, he proved to be a dual-threat quarterback, rushing for over 600 yards and scoring 6 touchdowns on the ground. Standing at 6’3” and weighing 215 pounds, Underwood demonstrated his ability to evade defenders, maintain composure in the pocket, and make plays both with his arm and his legs. That’s more than enough to trust his skills. But the game doesn’t totally depend on him, right?

Tension looms over Bryce Underwood’s future

Michigan fans celebrated victories against Ohio State and Alabama, but their excitement was short-lived due to struggles with their passing game and frequent changes in quarterbacks. Despite going through three QBs, the Wolverines ranked a disappointing 131st nationally in passing. The team eventually settled on Davis Warren, but with Bryce Underwood now set as the future quarterback, Michigan enters the 2025 season with uncertainty looming. Analysts, including James Yoder, are concerned as spring ball approaches. “More than three losses and there will be a melee in Ann Arbor,” Yoder warned. That reflects Michigan’s extremely high standards.

Now, the team is facing challenges with not just the offensive line but also to give a strong surrounding around their QB this season. Under Jim Harbaugh, Michigan was strong in their trench play, but this aspect of their game disappeared in 2024. Offensive line coach Grant Newsome is under pressure after his unit struggled, receiving a poor grade from Yoder. “For starters, okay, some challenges there, and they did get better by the end of the year, but not great,” he said. The team can’t afford slow progress and the offensive line must step up to stay competitive in the Big Ten.

That’s not it Yoder didn’t mince words about Newsome’s future, either. “I think he is short for the job. I think he’ll get replaced,” he said. That’s blunt, but the situation reflects the urgency within Michigan’s program. Facing tough opponents like Ohio State, Oregon, USC, and Penn State, shaky protection and inconsistent QB play could jeopardize Moore’s tenure.

However, there is a silver lining – Moore secured a significant victory by retaining defensive coordinator Wink Martindale, preventing him from returning to the NFL. This stability is crucial, given Michigan’s loss of key defensive players. If Moore can improve the offense and strengthen the team’s foundation, the Wolverines could remain contenders. Otherwise, Ann Arbor’s patience may wear thin quickly.