2023 Michigan’s JJ McCarthy was one of the most controversial QBs in recent history. From the supposed cheating scandal to criticism based on his experience, he was a Top 10 Draft Pick, nonetheless. Like his predecessor, Bryce Underwood is receiving unprecedented hype entering the 2025 season. So, one must ask; will he be better than McCarthy?
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JJ McCarthy’s Early Success
It was known early on in McCarthy’s career just how special he would be. His first career pass from scrimmage was a 69-yard touchdown from across his body. It was early signs like this that gave the Ann Arbor faithful hope for a National Championship and a Heisman contender, both of which came to fruition.
When it comes to how Underwood will perform, both analysts and fans should be skeptical to do the same as McCarthy. A quarterback’s career is not defined by his early days but by how he finishes, although if BU wows throughout his first season, it will certainly put all criticism at bay.
Bryce Underwood is Receiving More Hype
There might not be a recruit more hyped by his fanbase in recent memory than Bryce Underwood. Coming out of High School as the #1 Prospect according to every major recruiting site, the 6’5 (yes 6’5) QB has been deemed the savior of Michigan Football, one year removed from a National Title.
It does seem possible under Sherrone Moore that Underwood could break records early. The single-season passing record is 3,331 yards, set by John Navarre. This would be a down season compared to other premiere programs in the nation, or even the Big Ten. With the single greatest QB to ever walk through Schembechler Hall, there should be no doubt that Underwood can break this record in year one.
The Team, The Team, The Team
In 2025, the Wolverines are poised to finish with their greatest recruiting class in history, at least in my opinion. Headlined by Underwood himself, Michigan is expected to bring in 2 5-Star OLs in Andrew Babalola and Ty Haywood, a projected Alabama flip. Among the weapons the Wolverines are bringing in are Top 100 WRs Andrew Marsh and Jacob Washington. These two could make for the greatest WR duo Michigan has had in a decade once they develop at the next level.
On the other side of the ball, Wink Martindale had one of the most underrated units in the country this season. We’re talking about a group that held Ohio State to an eye-opening 10 points and quite frankly won the game for the Wolverines. Despite losing Will Johnson, Mason Graham, and Kenneth Grant (Of whom is still negotiating), the Wolverines always seem to have a next-man-up mentality on the defensive side. From Aidan Hutchinson and David Ojabo to Mikey Sainristil, there has never been a shortcoming of talent in Ann Arbor.
So, Will Bryce Underwood Be Better?
Without a doubt, yes.
I see no reason to believe that Bryce Underwood won’t be the greatest player in Michigan history. From below-par records to his natural talent, to the team surrounding him, he has the world in his hands if he wants it. It’s up to this coaching staff to not waste talent at the QB position like in years past. Underwood cannot go to waste, or there will never be an elite QB in Ann Arbor again/