Michigan Wolverines Dominate Central Michigan
After a tough loss to Oklahoma that had Michigan fans wringing their hands, the Wolverines needed a statement win. And boy, did they get one. In a 63-3 shellacking of Central Michigan, it wasn’t just the score that had everyone talking; it was the electrifying performance of true freshman Quarterback Bryce Underwood. This wasn’t just a bounce-back game; this was a coming-out party.
The offensive game plan against Oklahoma felt like driving a Ferrari in a school zone—cautious, conservative, and frankly, a little boring. But against CMU, Offensive Coordinator Kirk Campbell finally handed the keys to his prized quarterback. The result? A performance that felt like a highlight reel on repeat.
Bryce Underwood: A Dual-Threat Dynamo
Remember all that hype about Underwood being the next big thing? The comparisons to Vince Young? Well, it wasn’t just talk. Against the Chippewas, Underwood put on a clinic, showing off every tool in his arsenal. He was poised in the pocket, completing 16 of 25 passes for 235 yards and a touchdown. He was airing it out, connecting on deep balls and showing a level of aggression that was sorely missed against the Sooners.
But the real story was what he did with his legs. Unleashed from the pocket-passer role he played a week ago, Underwood was a blur, racking up 114 rushing yards and two touchdowns. It was a dazzling display of athleticism, featuring both designed runs and improvisational scrambles that left defenders grasping at air. This performance made him the first Michigan QB to rush for over 100 yards since Devin Gardner back in 2013. That’s not just a stat; that’s a statement.
Sure, there was a freshman moment—an interception where he tried to force a big play—but that’s the kind of mistake you live with. It’s a learning experience for a young player who is still finding his footing. The bigger takeaway is that when you let a player like Bryce Underwood be himself, magical things happen.
Is This the New Michigan Offense?
The question now is, was this just a one-off against an outmatched opponent, or is this the new normal for the Wolverines’ offense? With Head Coach Sherrone Moore serving a suspension, the sideline had a different energy. Maybe it was a coincidence, but the offense played with a freedom and swagger that was infectious.
Let’s be clear: this isn’t about disrespecting Central Michigan. This is about recognizing the weapon Michigan has in Underwood. The conservative approach might feel safe, but it puts a ceiling on what this offense can achieve. To compete for a Big Ten title and a spot in the playoff, Michigan needs to let its superstar play like one. The training wheels need to come off for good.
As the Wolverines head into the heart of their Big Ten schedule, this game should serve as the blueprint. Let Underwood cook. Let him use his arm, his legs, and his instincts. Because if this game was any indication, the future in Ann Arbor is not just bright; it’s explosive.
