The 2025 Michigan football season is 43 days away. Basically six weeks.
We have been waiting for what seems like ages for Bryce Underwood to take the field as the starting quarterback -- to launch this new era of Michigan football, which hopefully feels a lot like the last one.
Michigan is expected to be ranked in the preseason AP poll. The Wolverines have been projected by many to win between 8-10 games. They are viewed as a borderline College Football Playoff contender.
Much of that will depend on Underwood. There are other question marks, though. However, Michigan fans should have reason for optimism, and here are five reasons the Wolverines can make the playoff in 2025.
Bryce Underwood
The No. 1 overall prospect from the 2025 class is a reason for optimism. The 6-foot-4, 230-pound quarterback throws the ball as well as any high school prospect I've ever seen.
However, his athleticism is underrated. Underwood has been compared to Vince Young and Cam Newton for a reason, and Chip Lindsey won't be afraid to use him in the run game or RPOs.
It's fair to say that the QB position was held together last season with duct tape. If Michigan had a solid quarterback, it could have been a playoff team last year, easily.
So, if Underwood delivers on his promise of being a playmaker, this offense could take a huge leap in 2025. There will be some struggles. But even amidst some growing pains, Underwood should be a major upgrade.