McCulley, Marsh spark Michigan passing game

Michigan’s offense finally began to show the shape of its future on Saturday, as freshman quarterback Bryce Underwood and the Wolverines’ receiving corps hit their stride in a 24–10 win over Wisconsin.

The stat sheet told the story of growth: Underwood went 19-of-28 for 270 yards and a touchdown, good for a 160.6 passer rating despite constant pressure from the Badgers’ front. He was sacked just once, but several of his biggest throws came on the move, including a 29-yard strike to Donaven McCulley midway through the third quarter that broke the game open.

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McCulley’s breakout performance

McCulley turned in his best game as a Wolverine, catching six passes for 112 yards and a touchdown. The junior wideout was a reliable target in every situation — converting key third downs, stretching the field, and showcasing the chemistry that has been building between him and his freshman quarterback.

McCulley’s performance gave Michigan a true WR1 presence for the first time all season — and his rapport with Underwood was the foundation of the Wolverines’ best passing quarter of the year. Michigan racked up 153 yards through the air in the third quarter alone, averaging nearly nine yards per play during that stretch.

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Marsh brings energy and balance

If McCulley was the steady hand, freshman Andrew Marsh was the spark. Marsh caught four passes for 80 yards, all of them chain-moving plays that ignited drives. His ability to separate on intermediate routes opened up the middle of the field, forcing Wisconsin to back off its blitz looks in the second half.

Marsh’s emergence as a consistent second option is key to Michigan’s evolving identity. After weeks of experimenting, it’s becoming clear that the passing hierarchy is McCulley and Marsh at the top, with Semaj Morgan filling a slot and gadget role.

Morgan caught five passes for 44 yards and added a jet sweep, but another early drop stalled a first-half drive. He remains an explosive weapon in space, yet reliability has been an issue — something the staff will look to balance as they reintegrate redshirt freshman Channing Goodwin, who has battled inconsistency.

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Tight end room still searching

The one missing piece: tight end production. With Hogan Hansen sidelined, Michigan’s tight ends were nearly invisible, combining for just two targets. Offensive coordinator Chip Lindsey has leaned heavily on 11 personnel in recent weeks, but the Wolverines still need that reliable in-line and red-zone presence that Hansen provides.

Marlin Klein and Zack Marshall have had to shoulder much of the blocking and possession work — an area Michigan hopes to address heading into midseason Big Ten play. Hopefully Hansen is back for USC.

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Underwood’s growth and vision

Underwood looked every bit the part of a poised freshman phenom. His pocket presence continues to improve, and he displayed impressive command on third-down progressions, even as Wisconsin disguised pressure.

Despite offensive line issues that led to hurried throws in the first half, Underwood settled in after halftime. The Wolverines opened up the offense in the third quarter, blending shots with tempo, and the results were immediate — two touchdown drives and 184 total yards in the frame.

Justice Haynes powered the ground game with 117 yards and two scores, but it was Underwood’s precision and confidence that unlocked balance.

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Offense taking shape

The 24–10 win wasn’t perfect, but it revealed a clear offensive blueprint. McCulley is Michigan’s top receiver. Marsh is the next in line. Morgan is the wild card. When Hansen returns, the Wolverines will have the versatility to attack in multiple formations.

For now, Michigan will take the progress — a freshman quarterback growing up fast, a receiver room finding its identity, and an offensive line that has to find consistency to see this unit reach its potential.