Michigan’s Quarterback Conundrum: Is Bryce Underwood the Future or a Waiting Game?
A storm is brewing in Ann Arbor, and it’s not just the ever-changing landscape of the Big Ten. The Michigan Wolverines are stepping into a new era, a time of transition and uncertainty under center. With J.J. McCarthy gone, the battle for QB1 is more than just a competition—it’s a decision that could define Michigan’s 2025 season and beyond.
At the heart of the chaos? Bryce Underwood—the nation’s No. 1 recruit, a five-star sensation with expectations towering higher than the Big House itself.
But hold on—this isn’t a coronation. The road to QB1 won’t be a straight shot for the young phenom.
Veteran transfer Mikey Keene, fresh off an 18-touchdown season at Fresno State, is a serious contender. And don’t overlook Davis Warren, who’s still in the mix and has familiarity with Michigan’s system.
So, what’s the game plan? Will Sherrone Moore roll the dice on raw, electric talent, or will experience and stability take priority? Michigan’s stance on Underwood’s future is turning heads—and for good reason.
Sherrone Moore’s Toughest Decision Yet
Michigan insider James Yoder recently dropped a bombshell about the Wolverines’ quarterback depth chart, sending shockwaves through the fanbase.
“Davis Warren started last year, but I think he’s going to drop back to QB3,” Yoder revealed in his latest YouTube update.
That means it’s officially a two-horse race between Keene and Underwood.
And here’s where things get interesting.
“Michigan doesn’t really know what they have with Underwood yet. Is he ready to be the guy?” Yoder questioned.
That’s the million-dollar mystery. Underwood has the hype, the arm, and the talent, but Michigan has been burned before by rushing young quarterbacks into action. Some five-star recruits need time to develop, while others take the college football world by storm from Day 1.
Which category will Underwood fall into?
The Path to QB1: A Trial by Fire?
Yoder mapped out a possible scenario that could see Underwood slowly take over Michigan’s offense.
“A trip to Oklahoma in the second game of the year will be a big test. There’s at least a scenario where Keene starts the season opener, gets the job for Oklahoma, then the third game at home, and the fourth game on the road against Nebraska. If he’s playing well, maybe it’s a McCarthy situation—Underwood coming in and playing a bunch,” Yoder explained.
Sound familiar? It should. This is eerily similar to Michigan’s handling of J.J. McCarthy, who started as a rotational player before taking full control.
But what if Keene struggles?
That’s when Underwood’s true window opens.
“Maybe Michigan loses a game, say the seventh game of the year, and with a bye week, they make the switch to Underwood,” Yoder added.
Translation? Michigan is playing the long game. Underwood isn’t a matter of ‘if’—he’s a matter of ‘when.’
Greg McElroy Sounds the Alarm: A ‘Dangerous’ Hurdle for Underwood
Former Alabama quarterback Greg McElroy has been closely watching Michigan’s quarterback situation, and his take? Underwood might not be thrown into the fire right away—and for good reason.
“I just think that order [of games]—home, away, home, away [is tough]. That Washington game is dangerous because you have [a game] at SC, and you have [a game] at Michigan State, the rivalry game the following week. I think that’s dangerous,” McElroy warned.
McElroy’s point is hard to ignore. The Big Ten’s new schedule format is an absolute gauntlet, and Michigan’s early season stretch is brutal. Tossing a true freshman into that fire? Risky.
That’s why Mikey Keene makes sense—at least in the short term.
“He can probably steer the ship,” McElroy admitted.
Michigan isn’t looking for a quarterback to carry the team. They need a steady hand, someone who can manage the offense while the defense and run game do the heavy lifting.
And if Keene does that effectively, the Wolverines won’t be in a rush to push Underwood into action.
Underwood: Michigan’s Future, But When Does the Future Begin?
Make no mistake—Bryce Underwood is the crown jewel of Michigan’s future.
The five-star phenom officially arrived in Ann Arbor in late January, carrying with him the hopes of an entire fanbase.
Head coach Sherrone Moore couldn’t contain his excitement.
“I mean, anytime you get the number one player, not only in your state, but the country, I think that’s a huge thing for the program, a huge thing for us momentum-wise,” Moore gushed.
The Wolverines haven’t had a recruit this hyped in years. But for all the excitement, there’s still one massive question lingering over the program.
When will the Bryce Underwood era begin?
The Final Verdict: A Battle Just Getting Started
Here’s the reality: Michigan isn’t just picking a quarterback—they’re choosing their identity for the season.
- If they want experience and stability, Mikey Keene is the answer.
- If they want raw talent and sky-high upside, Bryce Underwood is the future.
- If they want a wild card, Davis Warren is lurking.
No matter what, one thing is certain—Underwood’s time is coming.
It’s not a question of talent—he has that in spades. It’s a question of timing.
Will he shock the world and take over in Week 1? Or will he bide his time, learning the ropes before becoming the face of Michigan football?
Wolverines fans—buckle up.
This quarterback battle is just getting started.
