It’s a new era in Ann Arbor as Kyle Whittingham takes over as head coach of the Michigan Wolverines. Known for his run-first, control-the-line-of-scrimmage philosophy at Utah, Whittingham now has at his disposal one of the most intriguing young quarterbacks in the country, Bryce Underwood.
Michigan benefited from Underwood’s decision to remain with the program rather than enter the transfer portal following the coaching change. Early signs from spring practice suggest the sophomore quarterback could be on the verge of the breakout many expected last year.
Why Bryce Underwood Is Poised for a Breakout Season with the Michigan Wolverines
In a recent interview, wide receiver J.J. Buchanan said Underwood is primed to take a significant step forward this season. “I think he will take a huge leap this year,” he said.
#Michigan WR JJ Buchanan on QB Bryce Underwood having worked with him this spring ball:
“I think he will take a huge leap this year.”
— Brice Marich (@BriceMarich) March 30, 2026
Underwood’s freshman campaign in 2025 was solid but fell short of the lofty expectations that followed him from high school. He finished with a PFSN CFB QB Impact Score of 78, ranking No. 79 nationally, a mark that did not meet the projections tied to his commitment to Michigan.
Michigan’s offense remained dangerous, though largely due to its rushing attack. The unit earned a PFSN CFB Offense Impact Grade inside the top 30 nationally, but the passing game lacked the consistency and explosiveness needed to elevate the offense into the elite tier.
Whittingham’s background could be pivotal for Underwood’s growth. At Utah, he built a reputation for establishing a physical ground game that supported quarterback development rather than relying on improvisation. If he can replicate that formula in Ann Arbor, Underwood may not need to carry the offense alone but instead evolve into a more complete and dangerous weapon within it.
The goal will be balance. While Underwood’s emergence as a superstar would be welcomed, maintaining Michigan’s strong rushing identity while unlocking more of his natural passing talent will be critical. If successful, opposing defenses will be forced to account for multiple dimensions rather than focusing solely on the run, which could build Underwood’s confidence.
If Underwood delivers the “huge leap” Buchanan expected of him, combined with a defense that performed at a high level last season, the Wolverines could be positioned for a significant increase in wins. In Whittingham’s first year, such progress could place Michigan firmly in the College Football Playoff conversation.
