Todd McShay’s recent NFL comparison for Michigan quarterback Bryce Underwood is turning heads.
On the latest episode of The McShay Show, the longtime draft analyst likened Underwood to Buffalo Bills star Josh Allen, citing his 6-foot-3, 210-pound frame, arm strength and breakaway ability. But the comparison feels premature at best give how the NFL MVP has carved out his path.
Underwood was one of the nation’s highest-profile quarterback recruits and has delivered a solid freshman campaign. Through 11 games, he has 2,166 passing yards, nine touchdowns and five interceptions, adding 322 rushing yards and five rushing scores.
After flipping from LSU, he has guided the Wolverines to a 9-2 (7-1 Big Ten) record and could enter College Football Playoff conversation if Michigan secures its fifth straight win over rival Ohio State on Saturday. It would also put the Buckeyes at the worst stretch over the past century.
Underwood already “looks like Josh Allen," but has not thrown for 300-plus yards in a single game this season. A standard benchmark Allen regularly clears in the league. However, Michigan's offensive firepower is behind a stout rushing attack, which ranks second in the Big Ten at 223.5 yards per game.
Not to say Underwood hasn't shown shades of Allen this season. He's just not the go-to featured part for Wolverines. He most certainly showed off his skills last year at Belleville High School outside Detroit.
Underwood could develop into a pro prospect, but we'll have to see more at this level.
Michigan hosts Ohio State in "The Game" this weekend, where Underwood will face another touted young quarterback in Julian Sayin.
The matchup may offer the next step in Underwood’s growth one grounded in reality in a new chapter of the rivalry.
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