Michigan coach: QB Underwood's job not guaranteed

Michigan's starting quarterback Bryce Underwood remains the team's signal-caller "right now," but his position is not guaranteed, according to head coach Kyle Whittingham. Whittingham addressed Underwood's status on Monday, September 7, 2026, following the Wolverines' narrow 13-12 victory over Western Michigan in their season opener on Saturday, September 5. Underwood, a highly touted recruit who received a significant financial commitment from the program, saved Michigan from a potential upset with a 47-yard Hail Mary touchdown pass to wide receiver JJ Buchanan as time expired. The play occurred after replay officials added one second back to the game clock. Despite the dramatic finish, Underwood's overall performance in the game was inconsistent. He completed 12 of 22 passes for 170 yards, one touchdown, and one interception, while also rushing for 47 yards and a touchdown on nine attempts. "Hes our QB right now, and its not something thats infinite," Whittingham told reporters. "At some point, weve got to turn a corner and weve got to see improvement." Whittingham emphasized that the need for improvement extends beyond the quarterback position to include the coaching staff.