Kyle Whittingham vows to put Bryce Underwood in best position possible at Michigan

Michigan quarterback Bryce Underwood had a lot of expectations placed on his shoulders his freshman season, which isn't necessarily out of the ordinary, but he handled it as best as he could. The Wolverines didn't make it to the College Football Playoff, Underwood wasn't the Heisman Trophy winner his freshman season, and you know what, it was okay.

While Underwood didn't quite perform up to the standards everyone expected, he chose to stick around for another season, even with a late coaching change, and it could end up being the best decision he ever makes as a Wolverine. Underwood is a true dual-threat quarterback, and while he used his legs his freshman season, at times, he was never used to his full potential.

While Underwood can run, he also has a cannon for an arm and can get the ball down the field as long as he has a target. For Michigan this next season, and new offensive coordinator Jason Beck, the plan is to allow Underwood to play to his strengths, and not just a few, but all of them, and Whittingham is leading that charge.

"Coach [Jason] Beck, our offensive coordinator, is a master at putting players in a position to succeed, which is the essence of coaching and help them accomplish that," Whittingham said in an interview with Big Ten Network. "We will play to Bryce's skillset, there's no doubt about it."

Bryce Underwood has a chance to completely break out in 2026 for Michigan

Underwood has received a lot of heat this offseason from talking heads in the media talking about his game, or lack thereof, at times. From former Utah star and Whittingham product Eric Weddle to former Ohio State linebacker Steele Chambers, Underwood has taken some hits this offseason.

Sure, Underwood's freshman season wasn't stellar. The Michigan native completed 60.3% of his passes with 2,428 passing yards, 11 touchdowns, and 9 interceptions. However, his run game was one to marvel at with 88 carries for 392 rushing yards and six touchdowns. While those numbers aren't what was expected from the former 5-star No. 1 prospect in his class, he was just a freshman.

That is not necessarily an excuse, but Michigan also didn't have the most elite weapons around Underwood to give him the support he needed. Whittingham made sure to get Udnerwood that with wide receiver Andrew Marsh returning and adding Utah transfer JJ Buchanan, plus let's not forget about Class of 2026 running back Savion Hiter beginning his Michigan career this season.

That is a lot more talent around Udnerwood to help elevate his level of play. At times, it felt like Michigan's play calls held Underwood back instead of showcasing his true dual-threat ability. Whtitingham seems determined this season to play into Underwood's skillset, not make him create a new one, which has to give Michigan fans some hope for 2026.

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