Bryce Underwood Reacts to Michigan’s Hiring of Kyle Whittingham: “Excited” for What’s Next in Ann Arbor
The Michigan Wolverines are entering a new era, and their young quarterback is all in.
Freshman QB Bryce Underwood, who just wrapped up his first season in Ann Arbor, shared his thoughts on the Wolverines’ latest move - the hiring of longtime Utah head coach Kyle Whittingham. Speaking ahead of Michigan’s upcoming Cheez-It Citrus Bowl matchup against Texas, Underwood said he’s “excited” about the direction of the program under its new leadership.
That’s a big statement from the face of the Wolverines’ future - especially after a turbulent few weeks for the program.
A New Leader After a Tumultuous Exit
Michigan’s coaching search began after Sherrone Moore stepped down amid a sexual misconduct scandal. The departure left the program in flux just as the offseason was beginning. But the Wolverines didn’t waste time finding a new voice - and they landed one with serious credentials.
On Friday, Michigan made it official: Kyle Whittingham is the next head coach in Ann Arbor. Athletic director Warde Manuel called him a “well-respected and highly successful head coach,” and it’s hard to argue with that assessment. Whittingham spent 22 seasons leading the Utah Utes, racking up a 177-88 record and building a reputation for toughness, consistency, and player development.
He wasn’t the only name in the mix - Missouri’s Eliah Drinkwitz and Washington’s Jedd Fisch were also considered - but in the end, Michigan went with experience and stability. And that’s exactly what this program needs right now.
Underwood’s Vote of Confidence
Bryce Underwood’s reaction to the hire is more than just a soundbite - it’s a signal. After a freshman season that had its ups and downs, his future with the Wolverines wasn’t entirely clear.
He still has one more game to play this season, but speculation swirled earlier this month when a parody social media account suggested he might enter the transfer portal. The rumor caught fire before being debunked, but it showed how closely fans are watching his every move.
So when Underwood publicly backed the Whittingham hire, it sent a message: he’s not running from the challenge - he’s embracing it.
A Promising Start with Room to Grow
Underwood’s freshman campaign wasn’t flawless, but there were flashes of the talent that made him a top recruit. He completed 179 of 293 passes for 2,229 yards, with nine touchdowns and six interceptions. Michigan finished 9-3, an improvement over their 8-5 mark from 2024, but the season ended on a sour note - both on and off the field.
Still, there’s a sense that the worst is behind them. With Whittingham now at the helm and Underwood showing signs of growth, Michigan has a foundation to build on.
The Citrus Bowl may be the final chapter of this season, but it also marks the beginning of a new one. And if Underwood’s excitement is any indication, the Wolverines are ready to turn the page.
Whittingham brings a proven track record. Underwood brings potential. Together, they might just bring Michigan back to where it wants to be - competing at the highest level, with confidence and clarity about the future.