Bryce Underwood entered his freshman year in Ann Arbor with a mix of promise and pressure, his 6‑foot‑4, 228‑pound frame drawing immediate attention. He threw for 2,428 yards, 11 touchdowns and nine interceptions while rushing for 392 yards and six scores, but also absorbed 21 sacks and saw a 5.5 percent drop rate on his receivers.
A Fresh Coaching Landscape
The Michigan program reshaped its quarterback room this offseason, bringing in former Utah head coach Kyle Whittingham to lead the offense, alongside offensive coordinator Jason Beck and veteran quarterback coach Koy Detmer. Their combined experience aims to give Underwood a more structured development path.
A New Mentor in the Mix
Adding to the mix, Jordan Palmer, a quarterback coach known for sculpting the mechanics of NFL talents such as Josh Allen, Joe Burrow and Sam Darnold, has been working directly with Underwood to sharpen his decision‑making and footwork. Palmer’s tutelage is expected to tighten the quarterback’s release and improve his reads of defensive coverages.
Refining the Game
Underwood’s focus this spring has been on cutting down the 21 sacks he endured and trimming the 5.5 percent drop rate that placed him among the unluckiest passers in 2025. He is emphasizing quick releases, precise route placement and a more decisive read of defensive schemes.
Supporting Cast and Scheme
Running back Jordan Marshall believes the offense will become more dynamic, giving Underwood additional options in the backfield. The coaching staff is also adjusting formations to put the quarterback in positions where his arm strength and mobility can be maximized, creating a more balanced attack.
With a year of experience under his belt and a support network that includes seasoned coaches and teammates, Underwood appears poised to turn the lessons of his rocky debut into a more polished sophomore campaign.