Overview
- Underwood remains Michigan’s starter after the 13-12 win, but coach Kyle Whittingham said the role is “not something that’s infinite” and demanded visible improvement following the opener on Saturday.
- The Wolverines’ running attack was ineffective in Week 1, averaging 4.2 yards per carry with just three forced missed tackles on the ground according to Pro Football Focus and limited success between the tackles.
- Advanced metrics and game charting showed the weak run game left Underwood without a rhythm in the pass game, and he completed 12 of 22 passes while leading the team with nine rushes for 47 yards and a late Hail Mary touchdown.
- National voices have weighed in on Underwood’s development: Urban Meyer described issues with spatial awareness, progression reads and physical development, and Mark Ingram warned poor play could create locker-room pressure if a viable backup is available.
- True freshman Tommy Carr is the designated No. 2, has taken first-team reps in practice, and could see meaningful snaps if Underwood fails to show cleaner reads, better processing and help from a more physical run game against Oklahoma.