Kyle Whittingham on Bryce Underwood's progression: 'He's getting closer' - On3

What the report says

On3.com reported that Michigan football coach Kyle Whittingham has reaffirmed sophomore quarterback Bryce Underwood as the Wolverines’ starter entering the 2026 season, saying on the “Rich Eisen Show” that Underwood remains the program’s clear choice at the position. Whittingham said fall camp, expected to begin in early August, will be important for Underwood’s continued development as Michigan opens a new coaching era.

According to On3, Whittingham pointed to Underwood’s youth and circumstances as context for his freshman season, when the Detroit native completed 60.3% of his passes for 2,428 yards, 11 touchdowns and nine interceptions while Michigan finished 9-4. Whittingham said Underwood has the physical profile and talent the staff wants, while noting that freshman Tommy Carr impressed during spring practices after enrolling early but remains behind Underwood.

The coach identified mechanics, footwork, pocket presence and decision-making as areas where Underwood has been working to improve. Whittingham also said the staff’s responsibility is to shape the offense around Underwood’s strengths, adding that the quarterback did not have a dedicated position coach the previous season, which may have affected his early progress.

On3 reported that Michigan plans to make greater use of Underwood’s mobility after he rushed for 392 yards and six touchdowns in 2025. Whittingham said the offense will move him outside the pocket more often, particularly because of his ability to extend plays and throw accurately while on the move. The development matters because Michigan’s early trajectory under Whittingham appears closely tied to Underwood’s growth.