Sherrone Moore not naming starting QB yet but Bryce Underwood’s name remains at the forefront

Under Center at Michigan: A QB Race Heats Up

The battle for Michigan’s starting quarterback position might be the most closely watched competition in Ann Arbor this fall, but Coach Sherrone Moore isn't giving anything away. With the Wolverines nearing the halfway point of fall camp, Moore remained tight-lipped about who will lead the offense against New Mexico, revealing only that the decision will be made public on Monday of game week, with the team knowing beforehand.

While the media waits for official word, sources close to the program tell a different story. Multiple individuals have indicated that Bryce Underwood is trending towards securing the starting role. This wouldn't come as a surprise to many, considering his relentless work ethic, which consistently impresses Moore.

"He’s a quiet kid by nature, but when he knows you, he’ll talk,” Moore said of Underwood. “He’s got an affectionate personality, great young man, obviously well documented with family. Jay and Beverly have done a great job raising him. Just comes to work every day, lunch pail, ready to go. Does everything the right way and attacks the right way. A pleasure to be around."

Moore emphasized that regardless of who takes the field on opening night, the expectations remain the same: “Expectations—for whoever the starting quarterback is, it’s to raise the level of the team. Be leaders of the offense. The quarterback has to be the captain of that room and that offense. Whoever that is, that’s what I want him to be.”

Looking beyond Underwood, Moore provided insights into each quarterback vying for playing time:

• Mikey Keene: "Obviously, the experience. He’s had over 2,300 snaps of college football. He’s been through every situation, done it all, seen it all."
• Jake Garcia: “Same thing (as Keene). He’s seen it, done it, great arm talent, great ability. He’s been really good for us and for the room.”
• Jadyn Davis: “His command, his knowledge of the offense, how he does it. A football junkie, a guy that loves the game.”

Moore made it clear that consistency will be paramount in determining the starter. "Just consistently do it," Moore said. "Whoever that person is, continue to grab the team and consistently do it throughout these times because this is where camp really gets hard. You’re in practice 12–15. Are you going to keep the level of play? Just want to see that level of consistency."