Bryce Underwood is only weeks into his college career, but he already has the Michigan locker room buzzing. The freshman quarterback has shown a blend of maturity, toughness, and leadership that is unusual for an 18-year-old at this level.
While his numbers are still catching up to his potential, Underwood has earned the trust of both coaches and teammates.
One of the players who has taken a close interest in his development is team captain Max Bredeson, who not only plays alongside him but also shared a room with him during fall camp.
That time together helped Bredeson see firsthand how prepared Underwood was to handle the challenges of leading an offense. His early play, including a memorable block in his debut game, has made it clear why teammates are already rallying behind him.
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Underwood’s maturity stands out to teammates
Bredeson, a veteran leader and former high school quarterback, has been vocal about Underwood’s unique qualities. While most first-year players need time to adjust, Bredeson insists that has not been the case here.
“It’s almost hard to say he matured because (of) how mature he came into all this,” Bredeson said. “Like, a guy who just loves college football, loves football. So, every day he steps in the field, he’s growing at something. So, again, there’s freshmen who come in, you’re like, ‘Oh, this guy’s got to take a second to mature’. It’s not like that. It feels like he’s the same guy, but just getting better at football.”
Through four weeks, the difference in Underwood’s performances at home and on the road can be traced to the level of competition, with Michigan facing Group of Five opponents in Ann Arbor and Power Four defenses away from home.
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Even so, his comfort level has continued to rise each week as he adjusts to the college game.
One moment that captured his competitiveness came in the opener against New Mexico, when he threw a punishing block to spring Justice Haynes. While the staff would prefer their quarterback avoid those situations, Bredeson appreciated the grit.
“Yeah, watching Bryce throw that block, I ran over, I was pumped up when he did that,” Bredeson said. “Coach Moore didn’t like it, but it was pretty exciting to see.”
For Michigan’s players, Underwood’s poise, preparation, and willingness to do the dirty work make it clear he is not just another freshman, but a quarterback ready to lead.