Todd McShay's NFL comparison for Michigan's Bryce Underwood is unlikely.

Jeff Hauser

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Why Todd McShay's NFL comparison for Michigan's Bryce Underwood is far-fetched image

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TL;DR

  • Todd McShay compares Michigan QB Bryce Underwood to Josh Allen due to build, arm, and speed.
  • Underwood has thrown for 2,166 yards, 9 TDs, 5 INTs, and rushed for 322 yards, 5 TDs this season.
  • Michigan leads the Big Ten in rushing, with Underwood not being the primary offensive focus.
  • Underwood's development will be further assessed in the upcoming game against Ohio State.

Todd McShay’s recent NFL comparison for Michigan quarterback Bryce Underwood is turning heads. 

During the most recent broadcast of The McShay Show, the seasoned draft expert drew parallels between Underwood and Buffalo Bills standout Josh Allen, pointing to his 6-foot-3, 210-pound build, powerful arm, and breakaway speed. However, this comparison seems premature, considering the unique journey the NFL MVP has taken. 

As one of the country's most recognized quarterback prospects, Underwood has had a strong debut season. In 11 contests, he's thrown for 2,166 yards with nine touchdowns against five interceptions, while also accumulating 322 yards on the ground and scoring five rushing touchdowns. 

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. 

While Underwood has indeed displayed glimpses of Allen's style this season, he isn't the primary offensive focus for The Wolverines. His talents were particularly evident last year at Belleville High School, located near 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. 

This contest could represent the next stage in Underwood's development, one that's based on facts and marks a new phase in the competition. 

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Editorial Team