Michigan's Bryce Underwood gets bad news after recent Wolverine news

Matt Sullivan

Michigan's Bryce Underwood gets bad news after recent Wolverine news image

© Junfu Han / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The Michigan Wolverines might have a quarterback problem developing soon. Bryce Underwood, who left LSU to join the Wolverines in 2024, is in solid shape to win the starting quarterback job in 2025.

But, after a new report, that may no longer be the case. After recent news trended in a negative direction for the Freshman quarterback, Underwood might not be the leader in the locker room for the starting job.

According to Pete Nakos of On3 on Twitter/X, sources are indicating that Michigan is projected to land Eastern Carolina University Pirates transfer quarterback Jake Garcia. The ECU quarterback had been rumored to be heading to the Wolverines, but Nakos' latest report leaves little doubt remaining that Michigan is landing Garcia.

Compared to the Freshman Underwood, Garcia has significantly more experience at the college level. Garcia has played in three NCAA seasons: 2021, 2022, and 2024. In 2024, Garcia attempted 181 passes, completing 109 for a completion percentage of 60.2 percent.

Garcia, for ECU in 2024, threw for 1,426 passing yards and eight touchdowns, while also throwing 12 interceptions. The Junior quarterback has experience, and that, combined with the Wolverines in solid shape elsewhere on the roster, might end up leaning towards the 'veteran' quarterback over Underwood.

Underwood wrapped up his High School career at Belleville High School with a 50-4 record and two Division I MHSAA State Championships. He was ESPN's top-ranked recruit in 2025, and he was credited with 12,919 all-purpose yards in his High School career.

While the Wolverines haven't made an official decision on Garcia joining the team or being the starter, his addition does make things more challenging for Underwood as a freshman. The top recruit might not start right away, despite the hype surrounding Underwood joining the Wolverines.

Matt Sullivan

Matt Sullivan is a freelance writer for The Sporting News, predominantly covering MLB. Matt is a native of Pennsylvania and has worked with Athlon Sports, Last Word on Sports, and other outlets.