Overview
- National TV analysts on Friday recommended more designed QB runs, rollouts and quick screens to get Underwood involved and limit read-heavy plays that have exposed his accuracy and footwork issues.
- Those commentators urged a mix of short early completions and one or two early downfield shots to loosen Underwood’s nerves and change defensive leverage against Oklahoma.
- Week 1’s 13-12 win over Western Michigan showed both improvement and clear flaws: Underwood had moments of poise but also turnovers, short accuracy and processing problems that went untested in limited live camp work.
- Michigan coaches have kept Underwood as the starter for now while naming Tommy Carr the backup and giving Carr first-team reps in practice if a change becomes necessary.
- Analysts and scouts say Michigan’s stout defense gives the offense some margin for error, but Saturday’s game will be an important live test that could shape Underwood’s short-term role and the team's offensive game plan.