Michigan coach confirms Bryce Underwood as starting quarterback after close win in opener

<p>Michigan Wolverines head coach Kyle Whittingham confirmed that Bryce Underwood is the starting quarterback following the team's narrow 13-12 victory over Western Michigan in their season opener. Underwood's last-minute Hail Mary pass to wide receiver JJ Buchanan secured the win, but his performance has raised questions about his position.</p><p>Underwood's initial Hail Mary attempt was unsuccessful, but officials reviewed the play and added one second back onto the clock, allowing him to connect with Buchanan for the game-winning touchdown. Despite this victory, Whittingham emphasized that Underwood's role as QB1 is not guaranteed. </p><p>"He's our QB right now, it's not something that's infinite," Whittingham stated during a press conference. He noted the need for improvement from both Underwood and the coaching staff, stating, "Nobody's is [set in concrete], you've got to perform week in and week out. Become somebody that we feel is playing at a level that we can win with." </p><p>Underwood, who signed a reported $12 million NIL deal as the top quarterback in the 2025 class, threw for 170 yards and rushed for 47 yards in the game, accounting for both of Michigan's touchdowns while also throwing one interception. Last season, he recorded 11 touchdowns and nine interceptions as a freshman.</p>