Michigan QB Underwood Faces Job Questions Before Oklahoma Game
Michigan quarterback Bryce Underwood faces intense scrutiny and questions about his job security following a controversial 13-12 season-opening victory over Western Michigan. The Wolverines' narrow win, secured by a disputed Hail Mary after officials added a second to the clock, has been overshadowed by Underwood's struggles in his first game under new head coach Kyle Whittingham. Excluding the game-winning play, Underwood completed 11 of 21 passes for 127 yards. He also rushed for 47 yards and a touchdown but was frequently indecisive, overthrowing receivers and appearing uncomfortable in Michigan's new offensive system. Pro Football Focus graded his passing performance as the second-worst among FBS quarterbacks in Week 1. Whittingham addressed Underwood's status this week, stating he is the starter "right now" but emphasizing the role is not "infinite." "At some point, we've got to turn a corner, and we've got to see improvement," Whittingham told reporters. "It's not just Bryce's job that is not absolutely set in concrete." When asked about those comments on Wednesday, Underwood told reporters he was unaware of them. "I didn't see that. It's cool," he said.