The college football world was rocked by some huge recruiting news earlier this week, as it was revealed that one of the nation’s top quarterback recruits, Bryce Underwood, had switched his commitment from LSU to Michigan.
If Underwood actually ends up at Michigan, it would be a huge coup for the Wolverines and first-year head coach Sherrone Moore. His team struggled through a mediocre season, due in part to inconsistent quarterback play. You will also be hosting a local hero in your home.
(relevant: Top high school recruit Bryce Underwood moves to Michigan)
The 6-foot-3, 205-pound quarterback played at Belleville High School, about 15 miles east of Ann Arbor. But he told LSU almost a year ago that he wanted to play there.
And despite rumors that Michigan was pursuing him with renewed intent, Underwood appeared to be loyal to LSU. He and his family also wore LSU jewelry in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, when Alabama beat the Tigers 42-13 earlier this month.
But things have changed in recent weeks, and FOX Sports college football insider Bruce Feldman stopped by Saturday’s “Big Noon Kickoff” to break it all down.
Michigan gets 5-star QB Bryce Underwood to flip LSU’s commitment with help from Tom Brady.
“(Underwood) has been committed to LSU for almost a year,” Feldman said. “This move sent shockwaves through the world of college football recruiting.”
Underwood grew up a Michigan fan, but Feldman said former Michigan coach Jim Harbaugh “didn’t pursue him like other schools did.”
So how did Michigan get back into the mix? Feldman outlined two key elements in the show.
First, the coach made Underwood a priority and also received help from key staff.
“After Harbaugh left for the NFL, Sean Magee (Michigan’s assistant football coach), who was in the Chicago Bears’ front office, came back to Michigan,” Feldman said. “He worked really hard with the GM to build and repair his relationship with Underwood, and he made him a top priority, just like he did with Sherrone Moore.”
Second, Michigan State turned to none other than legendary alum Tom Brady for help.
“Another big part of this transition (from LSU to Michigan) was the many Zoom calls we had with football legend and Michigan native Tom Brady, who has been a really good resource for Bryce Underwood.” Feldman said.
Feldman said flipping Underwood could build recruiting momentum for Michigan, which enters this weekend with a 5-5 record.
“Now that Underwood is here, don’t be surprised if more blue-chip players head to Ann Arbor and join him on the Wolverines,” Feldman said.
Michigan’s class of 2025 currently ranks ninth in the nation and third in the Big Ten based on a composite score of 247.
The Associated Press contributed to this story.
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