Michigan Keeps Underwood at QB, Beck Calling Plays

Michigan coach Kyle Whittingham said Monday that Bryce Underwood will remain the starting quarterback and offensive coordinator Jason Beck will continue calling plays as the Wolverines prepare to face Penn State. The decision follows consecutive Big Ten losses and continued struggles on offense, but Whittingham said the current lineup and play-calling arrangement would stay in place for the next game. Michigan is scheduled to host Penn State on Saturday, October 17. The Wolverines enter the matchup after a 20-19 home loss to Iowa and a 20-14 defeat at Minnesota, then used a bye week before Whittingham announced his plans. The dates and records in the reports place the Iowa game on September 26 and the Minnesota game on October 3. Underwood, a sophomore, has completed 59.3% of his passes for 881 yards, five touchdowns and four interceptions through five games, according to reported season statistics. He has also rushed for 212 yards and two touchdowns. Turnovers have been a particular concern: Michigan has lost three fumbles and Underwood has thrown four interceptions this season, including two in succession against Minnesota.