Michigan freshman quarterback Bryce Underwood has already shown flashes of being more advanced than most players his age. In his first four games, he has delivered strong moments both through the air and on the ground.
His 251 passing yards against New Mexico in Week 1 displayed his arm talent, while his 235-yard performance in Week 3 against Central Michigan highlighted his ability to add damage with his legs.
Even when Nebraska limited him in Week 4, Underwood’s composure was clear. With Wisconsin and the nation’s top rushing defense coming to Ann Arbor this weekend, the focus shifts to how his dual-threat game could tilt the matchup.
Tight ends coach Steve Casula believes Underwood’s mobility might be the key that challenges Wisconsin’s defense in ways few others have.
Underwood’s skill set changes the game
Casula outlined how quarterback runs reshape defensive responsibilities.
“We’ve carried quarterback runs in some fashion in every game,” he said. “When you run the quarterback, it’s like having a 12th guy on the field. There’s an extra gap for the defense to fit. There’s an extra ball carrier they have to account for.”
He noted that Underwood’s ability to extend plays, whether scrambling or throwing on the move, forces opponents to adjust coverages and scheme differently.
“It can change and alter when you’re in certain formations, how many people they stand in or out of the box,” Casula said. “It’s not just a first and second down thing. It’s not just a red zone thing.”
Also read: Why Bryce Underwood’s freshman season already has Michigan teammates fired up?
Casula admitted he expected typical growing pains, but Underwood has shown unusual maturity.
“I’ve almost personally—to be candid: have been waiting for this moment to kind of look around like, ‘Yeah, well, he is just a freshman.’ It really hasn’t happened,” he said.
Casula praised how the young quarterback handled hostile environments in Norman and Lincoln and credited the coaching staff for preparing him.
“So in terms of growth, certainly—I don’t know if growth’s the right word—but he’s revealed to us or shown us he’s willing to win any which way possible. He’s all in. He’s a team guy, but he’s really, really good, man,” Casula said.
With Wisconsin up next, Michigan may need every bit of that versatility to find success.