Michigan completely overhauled its quarterback situation this offseason by landing Bryce Underwood, the No. 1 overall recruit in the 2025 class. After a year of inconsistency at the position, Underwood is expected to breathe new life into the offense.
However, head coach Sherrone Moore has yet to name a starter. Despite Underwood already drawing comparisons to 2010 Heisman winner Cam Newton, one analyst believes the coaching staff’s approach to the ongoing quarterback competition could hurt the program long-term.
Analyst Warns Michigan’s QB Strategy Could Hurt Bryce Underwood’s Long-Term Impact
Michigan HC Sherrone Moore made headlines last week for holding off on naming a starting quarterback, even with the nation’s top 2025 recruit already on the roster.
Freshman Bryce Underwood is battling for the starting job alongside grad transfer Mikey Keene, who arrived from Fresno State this offseason, Eastern Carolina transfer Jake Garcia, and redshirt freshman Jadyn Davis, a four-star recruit from Michigan’s 2024 class.
When asked about the starting quarterback, Moore said the decision will become clear once one player earns the team’s full support, which he and his staff view as the key indicator before naming a starter.
Sherrone Moore says it’s still an open competition at QB.
“When they ‘have the team’ we’ll know we have our starter.” pic.twitter.com/uHKDYZubm8
— Maize & Blue Review: Michigan Football, Basketball (@MaizeBlueRvw) July 24, 2025
“When they ‘have the team’ we’ll know we have our starter,” Moore said.
From the outside looking in, Underwood seems like the obvious choice, despite being a true freshman. The Belleville, Michigan native is uber talented and has already drawn comparisons to former Heisman Trophy winner Cam Newton.
NEW: Michigan QB signee Bryce Underwood is the first recruit to ever receive a 100 rating from On3📈
“The combination of size, arm talent, and athleticism is reminiscent of players like Josh Allen and Cam Newton.” –@CharlesPower
Story: https://t.co/8Tf8JwCJxs pic.twitter.com/MXqG8VIs8H
— On3 (@On3sports) January 30, 2025
While it might seem wise to have Underwood sit during what could be a rebuilding year for the Wolverines, Joe DeLeone, host of the “Ruffino and Joe Show,” warned that delaying his playing time could harm the young quarterback’s long-term development.
“You have an incredibly gifted and talented player in Bryce Underwood, who some people are comparing to the next Cam Newton,” DeLeone said. He later added, “It is best for the success of your team for him to start and to learn how to play the game.”
DeLeone makes a fair point. The Wolverines’ offense struggled badly last season, and no matter who starts in 2025, it’s likely to improve.
Allowing Underwood to take the reins would give him valuable playing time as a true freshman, helping him learn and grow. Even if he doesn’t excel immediately, the experience will set him up for future success.
Regardless, the Wolverines will open the 2025 season on August 30 against New Mexico. The following week will be a challenge — a road trip to Norman, Oklahoma, to face the Sooners. Michigan also has games scheduled against Nebraska, Wisconsin, USC, Michigan State, Purdue, Maryland, and Ohio State.
