The college football world was rocked by major recruiting news earlier this week when it was revealed that Bryce Underwood, one of the nation’s top quarterback recruits, was transferring from LSU to the University of Michigan.
If Underwood does end up going to the University of Michigan, it would be a huge coup for the Wolverines and first-year head coach Sherrone Moore. That’s because his team has struggled through a mediocre season due in part to inconsistent play from its QB. It would also keep local heroes at home.
[Related: Top high school recruit Bryce Underwood flips to Michigan]
The 6-foot-3, 205-pound quarterback played at Belleville High School, about 25 miles east of Ann Arbor. But he told LSU about a year ago that he intended to play there.
And even though rumors surfaced that the University of Michigan was pursuing him with a new purpose, Underwood appeared to remain loyal to LSU. He and his family also wore LSU jewelry when Alabama defeated the Tigers 42-13 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, earlier this month.
But things have changed in recent weeks, and FOX Sports college football insider Bruce Feldman stopped by “The Big Noon Kickoff” set for Saturday to break everything down.
University of Michigan acquires 5-star QB Bryce Underwood with help from Tom Brady, withdraws commitment from LSU
”[Underwood] “I’ve been committed to LSU for almost a year, a move that shocked the college football recruiting world,” Feldman said.
Although Underwood grew up a big Michigan fan, Feldman said former Michigan coach Jim Harbaugh “didn’t really follow Underwood like other schools did.”
So how did Michigan get back into the fold? Feldman outlined two key factors on the show.
First, the head coach made Underwood a top priority, and he got help from key staff members.
“After Harbaugh left for the NFL, [Michigan’s Associate Athletic Director for Football] “Sean McGee, who was in the Chicago Bears’ front office, is back at Michigan,” Feldman said. “He worked really hard to work with the GM and build and repair his relationship with Underwood.” spoke. And just like Sherone Moore, he made him a priority. ”
Next, Michigan State turned to legendary alumnus none other than Tom Brady for help.
“Another big part of this flip [from LSU to Michigan] “I had a lot of Zoom calls with football legend and Michigan State alum Tom Brady, and he became a really good resource for Bryce Underwood,” Feldman said.
Feldman said replacing Underwood could provide momentum for Michigan, which opens this weekend with a 5-5 record.
“Now that Underwood is on board, don’t be surprised if we see even more blue-chip players come to Ann Arbor and join the Wolverines,” Feldman said.
The University of Michigan’s 2025 class is currently ranked No. 9 in the nation and No. 3 in the Big Ten. 247 per composite score.
The Associated Press contributed to this article.
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