Michigan’s Backup Quarterback Race Has Tightened Behind Bryce Underwood

What Happened

Michigan sophomore Bryce Underwood remains the starting quarterback heading into the final stretch of fall camp before the Sept. 5 opener against Western Michigan. Offensive coordinator Jason Beck said Underwood has produced 13 good practices. The backup job is unsettled between freshman Tommy Carr and Colorado State transfer Brayden Fowler-Nicolosi. Carr began camp with an advantage because of his spring experience and familiarity with Michigan’s system. Beck said Fowler-Nicolosi struggled during the first several practices but has settled in over the last week and closed the gap. The two quarterbacks split all No. 2 reps during the week. Fowler-Nicolosi brings 28 collegiate starts to the competition.

Why It Matters

• The No. 2 reps are now split, so Michigan has not created separation behind Underwood before the opener.
• Fowler-Nicolosi’s 28 collegiate starts give Michigan a more experienced backup option if the offense has to change quarterbacks.
• Carr’s system familiarity still matters because he entered camp with the early advantage and continues to improve.

THE PATE STATE READ

Credit Carr for building the lead before Fowler-Nicolosi had fully settled into the offense. Credit Fowler-Nicolosi for closing the gap instead of letting that early disadvantage become the depth chart. The backup race has moved from a familiarity edge for Carr to a live competition over the No. 2 reps. That’s a roster decision, not a crisis around Underwood. The test is whether Fowler-Nicolosi can keep matching Carr once Michigan makes its final call and the opener puts the backup plan on the sideline.(Josh has not yet commented.)

What's Next

• Sept. 5 — Michigan opens the season against Western Michigan, with Underwood set to start and the backup decision under the microscope.