Open the Playbook on Offense
Week after week, it feels like the Michigan offense is putting handcuffs on freshman quarterback Bryce Underwood. The talent is through the roof with this kid and he shows flashes in every game so far, but it still feels like we are waiting for a huge breakout game from him. His throwing ability is like nothing I have ever seen before, so why isn't it being utilized more?
The play calling for the first half of this season has felt very conservative and very predictable. If there isn't a huge breakaway run from running back Justice Haynes, then this offense will struggle because it relies so heavily on the run. We see this happen many times: a drive starts with two run plays, which leads to a third-and-long obvious passing situation for Underwood. Haynes is a player who needs his touches due to the talent he brings to the offense, but perhaps it's time to call plays that revolve more around Underwood's strengths.
Underwood's decision-making is very mature for someone who has only had six career starts at the college level. His decision-making led to some of the biggest plays last week against USC, two of them being touchdowns. His touchdown passes were the best plays he has had all season, and it just shows the potential of this offense.
Michigan football hired offensive coordinator Chip Lindsey to fit Underwood's style of play. So far this season, it feels like he has let his young quarterback down and hasn't brought the best out of him. Maybe with the playoffs on the line for the rest of the season we will see what this offense can truly be.