Bryce Underwood reveals if he thinks he has lived up to preseason hype

Few players entered the 2025 season with expectations like Bryce Underwood. Winning the starting quarterback role as a true freshman will bring that, especially at a place like Michigan. Mix in his recruiting hype and everyone thought a star was about to be born in Ann Arbor.

Through six games, some self-evaluation came from Underwood when asked if he believes the preseason hype has been fulfilled. Underwood pointed out the importance of needing to execute and helping out his teammates on a play-to-play basis. A savvy answer from somebody so young in his career.

“Just really doing what I can for my team,” Underwood said. “No matter what they play is, just executing it the best play possible. And just expecting out of every single one of the 11 players on my side.”

Underwood played high school football at Belleville (MI), where he was a Five-Star Plus+ prospect. He was the No. 1 overall recruit in the 2025 cycle, according to the Rivals Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies.

There was no guarantee Underwood would walk in and win the starting job. Michigan brought in two quarterbacks out of the NCAA transfer portal, Jake Garcia and Mikey Keene. The latter was part of the battle to ultimately win out but an injury helped Underwood.

Six games in and the personal results are certainly mixed. Underwood has thrown for 1,210 yards, five touchdowns, and two interceptions. The run game is certainly a part of his game too, adding 177 yards and three touchdowns on 32 carries. Looking at the team perspective, Michigan is 4-2 halfway through the season.

“Because of how hard we work every single day,” Underwood said when asked if Michigan is still alive for the College Football Playoff. “So, of course we are.”

Another tough test is on the way, welcoming the Washington Huskies to Ann Arbor. A big-time bounce back is needed after losing to USC in Los Angeles. For now, Underwood is just focused on going out there and playing well.

Expectations are going to remain high for Underwood, no matter how the next few weeks play out. Everyone believes there is a massive ceiling for him, something you can conclude from his recruiting rankings alone. His first-ever six-game stretch or totality of a true freshman season will not change much — whether or not he wants to discuss the topic.