Michigan's narrow escape against Western Michigan last weekend was anything but convincing, and now one of college football's most outspoken voices is questioning whether the Wolverines' starting quarterback has a short leash.
Urban Meyer, the former Ohio State head coach, appeared on The Herd with Colin Cowherd and didn't mince words about Bryce Underwood's performance. While he expects the young signal-caller to develop as the season progresses, he hinted that a slow start against Oklahoma could open the door for freshman Tommy Carr to see the field.
“I expect Bryce Underwood to get better and better and better. However, if this thing does not go well in the first half you might see the Freshman quarterback, Carr, come in there,” Meyer said.
Underwood's outing against Western Michigan was hardly a confidence-builder. Before his dramatic 47-yard touchdown pass that sealed the win after a controversial extra second was put on the clock, he had completed just 11 passes for 123 yards and thrown an interception. That performance has raised eyebrows among fans and analysts alike.
Tommy Carr, on the other hand, carries a name that resonates deeply in Ann Arbor. As the grandson of legendary coach Lloyd Carr, the son of former Michigan backup Jason Carr, and the younger brother of Notre Dame's CJ Carr, football is in his DNA. The four-star prospect has already generated significant buzz among the Wolverines faithful.
The stakes are higher this week as Michigan faces an Oklahoma team that looked dominant in a 51-0 rout of UTEP. The Sooners appear to be a well-oiled machine on both sides of the ball, and they'll enter Saturday's contest as five-point favorites, making Michigan a rare home underdog.
Meyer's comments echo his recent praise for the Big Ten's fan culture, but this time he's focused on the quarterback situation. He also noted that Underwood's development is a work in progress, but patience may be wearing thin in a season where expectations remain high.
Underwood, however, has already shown he can handle criticism. He recently fired back at critics over a viral smile, proving he's not easily rattled. But a benching would be a different kind of test.
With the Sooners coming to town, Michigan needs a sharp performance from its offense. If Underwood struggles early, the buzz for Tommy Carr could turn into a full-throated roar from the home crowd. Meyer's warning may be just the wake-up call the Wolverines need.
