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Jan 27, 2025; Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA; Michigan Wolverines quarterback Bryce Underwood participates in a t-shirt toss during a time out in the second half against the Penn State Nittany Lions at Crisler Center. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images

Bryce Underwood reveals timeline for major decision regarding his Michigan future

Originally posted on Gridiron Heroics
By Ajayi Olamilekan | Last updated Dec 27, 2025 4:17 PM ET

Michigan’s star freshman quarterback Bryce Underwood addressed his future with the program during a media session on saturday, confirming that any decisions about his path forward will wait until after the Wolverines face Texas in the Citrus Bowl.

The 18-year-old signal-caller made it clear his attention remains locked on the team’s bowl preparation and the upcoming matchup on December 31.

Underwood’s comments come at a turbulent time for Michigan football. The program hired Kyle Whittingham as its new head coach just one day earlier, replacing Sherrone Moore who was dismissed for cause earlier this month. Underwood expressed excitement about meeting Whittingham when the veteran coach gets introduced to the team later today.

However, the former top-ranked recruit in the 2025 class stopped short of committing to staying in Ann Arbor beyond the bowl game, according to Detroit Free Press reporter Tony Garcia.

Bryce Underwood is here meeting with media. Said the focus has been on the team and this week and added he’s excited to meet Kyle Whittingham later today when he’s introduced to the team.

As for the future? He’ll discuss that with his family after the bowl game on Dec. 31. pic.twitter.com/h7Xe79MmSw

— Tony Garcia | Detroit Free Press (@RealTonyGarcia) December 27, 2025

The timing of Underwood’s planned family discussions carries significant weight. Retaining the Detroit-area native represents Michigan’s top priority as the program navigates a coaching transition that has created uncertainty across the roster.

Whittingham’s arrival brings hope for quarterback’s retention

Michigan head coach Sherrone Moore watches quarterback Bryce Underwood (19) during the first half of the spring game at Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor on Saturday, April 19, 2025.

Kyle Whittingham’s hiring arrived with a potential game-changer. The 66-year-old coach reportedly plans to bring Utah offensive coordinator Jason Beck with him to Michigan. Beck transformed Utah’s offense into one of the nation’s most productive units in 2025, helping quarterback Devon Dampier throw 29 total touchdowns against just five interceptions while leading the Utes to average 41.1 points per game.

The prospect of working with Beck could appeal to Underwood, who completed 179 of 293 passes for 2,229 yards with nine touchdowns this season. Other programs have already started circling, recognizing that Michigan’s coaching upheaval presents an opportunity to lure away the prized quarterback.

Nov 23, 2024; Salt Lake City, Utah, USA; Utah Utes head coach Kyle Whittingham watch the team warm up before the game against the Iowa State Cyclones at Rice-Eccles Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rob Gray-Imagn Images

Bowl game serves as final audition under interim leadership

Biff Poggi will coach Michigan in the Citrus Bowl after serving as interim head coach following Moore’s dismissal. The matchup against Texas gives Underwood one final chance to showcase his talents before making any decisions about his college career. Whittingham won’t coach in the game but is expected to be present in Orlando to support the team.

Michigan finished the regular season 9-3 and won five of its last six games. The Wolverines face a Texas team that also went 9-3 during the regular season. Kickoff is scheduled for 3 p.m. ET on ABC at Camping World Stadium in Orlando.

This article first appeared on Gridiron Heroics and was syndicated with permission.

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