Bryce Underwood reveals three main “Big Factors” for picking Michigan over LSU

In college football recruiting, few decisions are as significant as choosing which university to commit to, and for 2025’s top quarterback recruit, Bryce Underwood, that choice recently came down to Michigan and LSU. Underwood, widely regarded as one of the top prospects in his class, had a number of suitors, but ultimately decided that the University of Michigan was the best fit for his future. In a recent interview, Underwood opened up about the three key factors that played a pivotal role in his decision-making process and why he chose to play for the Michigan Wolverines over the Louisiana State University Tigers.

As one of the most sought-after quarterbacks in the country, Underwood’s decision to pick Michigan over LSU sent shockwaves through the college football recruiting world. With an elite skill set and incredible potential, Underwood’s commitment to Michigan marks a significant win for the Wolverines’ recruiting efforts and their quest to continue building on their recent success in the Big Ten.

In his discussion of the decision, Underwood outlined three major factors that ultimately led him to select Michigan: the coaching staff and their vision, the opportunity to thrive in Michigan’s offensive system, and the emphasis on developing him both as a player and a person. Let’s dive deeper into each of these components to understand why they were crucial in Underwood’s choice and how they reflect the broader appeal of Michigan football.

1. Coaching Staff and Vision for His Development

The first factor that weighed heavily on Underwood’s decision was the relationship he developed with Michigan’s coaching staff, particularly head coach Jim Harbaugh and offensive coordinator Sherrone Moore. Underwood emphasized that the personal connection he built with the coaches played a significant role in his decision. In particular, Harbaugh’s track record of developing quarterbacks stood out.

Underwood mentioned that Harbaugh’s experience, both as a former NFL quarterback and a college coach, gave him confidence that Michigan was the right place for him to reach his full potential. Harbaugh has worked with some of the most talented quarterbacks in recent college football history, including Andrew Luck at Stanford and Shea Patterson at Michigan. Underwood sees Harbaugh’s ability to elevate quarterbacks to the next level as a key advantage that Michigan can offer him.

Additionally, Michigan’s offensive staff, including Moore, is known for tailoring offensive schemes to fit the strengths of its players. Moore’s expertise in creating an offense that maximizes the talents of his quarterbacks was another major draw for Underwood. The opportunity to work with such a talented and dynamic coaching staff was a significant factor in his decision to join the Wolverines over LSU.

“It’s not just about playing on Saturdays,” Underwood explained. “It’s about developing me for the future, and I believe Coach Harbaugh and Coach Moore can help me become the best version of myself. They understand quarterbacks and know how to bring the most out of their players.”

Underwood’s trust in Michigan’s coaching staff made it clear that he saw his future at Michigan as one that would allow him to grow as both a player and a person, setting the stage for a potentially lucrative career in football after college.

2. Fit in Michigan’s Offensive System

Another key factor that influenced Underwood’s decision was the fit between his skills and Michigan’s offensive system. The Wolverines are known for their balanced, physical offense, with an emphasis on both the run and pass games. While Michigan is often characterized as a traditional power football team, it has evolved under Harbaugh’s leadership into a squad that is capable of putting up points through the air, especially with a talented quarterback leading the way.

Underwood noted that Michigan’s ability to utilize a quarterback’s strengths in a pro-style system was a significant consideration in his decision. With a high football IQ and the ability to read defenses, Underwood believes he can excel in Michigan’s system, which has a well-established history of turning quarterbacks into NFL draft prospects.

Unlike some of the more pass-heavy offenses in college football, Michigan’s balanced offensive approach would allow Underwood to develop as a quarterback in a system that focuses on both mechanics and decision-making. The ability to make plays in both the passing game and the running game—an increasingly important skill for modern quarterbacks—was another reason that Underwood was drawn to Michigan’s offensive scheme.

Underwood also expressed his appreciation for Michigan’s commitment to ensuring that its quarterbacks are well-prepared for the NFL. “It’s not just about winning now,” he said. “It’s about making sure I’m prepared for the next level, and Michigan gives me that opportunity. I can grow in their system, and they’ll put me in a position to succeed.”

At LSU, Underwood would have likely been asked to thrive in a more up-tempo, pass-oriented system under offensive coordinator Mike Denbrock. While that system also offers plenty of opportunities for a dynamic quarterback like Underwood, the style of offense at Michigan fit his skill set more closely, making it an easier fit for him in the long run.

3. Personal Development and Culture Fit

The third and final factor that played a major role in Underwood’s decision to pick Michigan over LSU was the emphasis the university placed on developing him as a person, not just as a player. Underwood spoke at length about the culture at Michigan and the environment in which he felt would help him grow both on and off the field. The strong academic foundation and the family-like atmosphere within the Michigan football program were two aspects that resonated deeply with him.

Underwood praised Michigan’s commitment to helping its players succeed not only on the football field but also in their personal lives, academics, and life after football. The program’s focus on building well-rounded individuals was important to him, as he values education and personal growth just as much as his football career. This focus on holistic development, both on and off the field, is something that Michigan has prided itself on and is a key component of why Underwood ultimately felt it was the best place for him.

“The people at Michigan care about you as a person, not just a football player,” Underwood said. “That’s something that’s really important to me. I want to develop into the best player I can be, but I also want to be a good person and be prepared for whatever comes after football. Michigan offers me both of those things.”

Additionally, Underwood expressed that the camaraderie and sense of community within the Michigan football team were factors that helped solidify his commitment. He spoke highly of the program’s family atmosphere, where players support each other both on and off the field, creating an environment conducive to growth and success.