As one of the most underrated in-state rivalry games flies into focus, the Michigan Wolverines are looking to their young quarterback to bring them out on top of the Michigan State Spartans.
Bryce Underwood, who became Michigan's starting quarterback as a true freshman this season, has led the Wolverines to a 5-2 overall record and has proven that he was worth all of the hype that he received as a recruit.
Now, because of Michigan State's struggles on the defensive side of the ball, Underwood is primed to have his best game yet.
Michigan State's defense won't stop Bryce Underwood
Coupled with star running backs Justice Haynes and Jordan Marshall, the Wolverines' backfield is one of the best in the country, and that is due in large part to Underwood.
Underwood is a dual-threat quarterback, that's an undeniable fact, and that will pose as a massive problem for the Spartans, who have struggled all season to slow down their opponents' offensive schemes.
So far this season, Underwood, Haynes, and Marshall have combined for 1,341 yards and 15 touchdowns on the ground, alongside Underwood's 1,440 yards and seven touchdowns on the ground.
Meanwhile, Michigan State's defense ranks 131st in expected points added per passing play by their opponents and 101st in expected points added per rushing play. On the flip side, Michigan ranks 45th in the country in EPA per pass and 31st per run.
Simply put, Underwood is set up to have as much success as he wants to on Saturday, largely because of his team but also because of just how much Michigan State has struggled so far this season.
The No. 25 Wolverines and the (unranked) Spartans are scheduled to kick off at 7:30 p.m. ET on Saturday, Oct. 25, and the game will be aired on NBC.