Michigan Football: First Look at Bryce Underwood at Bowl Practice

Michigan football is in Tampa Bay as the Wolverines prepare to square off against the Alabama Crimson Tide in the ReliaQuest Bowl.

While the Wolverines are double-digit underdogs and will be playing without the majority of their top players, there are still a handful of bright spots that come with the bowl appearance. The largest being a chance to see and hear about the early enrollees in practice.

And of course, no early enrollee for Michigan football has garnered as much attention as No. 1 (via 247 Sports composite rankings) recruit Bryce Underwood. Videos and images have been posted showcasing Underwood at his first ReliaQuest Bowl practice, and it's safe to say that Michigan football fans are very excited to see what Underwood can do.

While early enrollees cannot play in the bowl game itself, having them practice and prepare for a game with the team is extremely valuable. Likewise, these recruits are getting a headstart on their development, building deeper relationships with their coaches, and getting a chance to show the world what they can do. For a quarterback, the extra practice reading a defense and playing against elite athletes can make a huge difference in development.

Underwood can be a difference-maker from day one. First off, the kid is an athlete. I mean, he looks like a college junior already. And the arm talent is undeniable. If Michigan football can surround him with playmakers on offense, this could be one of the most dynamic offenses in the nation.

As bowl preparation continues, we're going to see and hear more about Underwood and the rest of the early enrollees. It's going to be exciting to hear about who has been performing the best. While this bowl game may be meaningless for the 2024 season, it has a whole lot of meaning for 2025 and beyond. Go blue!