CFB analyst lays out laundry list for Michigan's Bryce Underwood to justify $12 million price tag

Bryce Underwood is arguably the most hyped freshman quarterback in collegiate football leading up to the 2025 regular season. The Michigan Wolverines signal-caller had offers seveal top programs, but ultimately chose to play for Sherrone Moore's team.

With the regular season opener fast approaching, college football analyst RJ Young laid out a laundry list for Underwood to justify his hefty $12 million price tag.

"Bryce Underwood got to throw 3,000 yards and 30 TDs in Year 1," Young said, via "Adapt & Respond." "I don't think that's asking a lot, I think that's asking exactly what you would from a $12 million quarterback.

"I say 3,000 and 30 and not 4,000 and 40 because I don't think that Sherrone Moore will allow Chip Lindsey to throw the ball all over the yard and even if he did he doesn't have the wide receivers to do it. That is a position of need for Michigan."

Young believes Underwood is talented enough to reach the 3,000 passing yards and 30 touchdowns mark as a true freshman. However, he's skeptical about predicting higher numbers due to the Wolverines' lack of top-notch receiver options.

Underwood is a high-potential shot caller, but it's important to note the difference between high school football and college football.

What's next for Michigan's Bryce Underwood?

Bryce Underwood is adapting to the collegiate scene by participating in practice sessions with Michigan. The Wolverines are famous for their player development, as evidenced during the days of Jim Harbaugh.

Harbaugh was instrumental in developing J. J. McCarthy, who led Michigan to a national championship, and was selected by the Minnesota Vikings in the first round in 2024. Sherrone Moore's team will hope for a similar trajectory for Underwood as he embarks on his collegiate career in familiar surroundings.

Underwood's first game will be against the New Mexico Lobos on Aug. 30. He should be the QB1 in that game, barring any setback in training.