College Football

Maybe Tommy Carr should be Michigan’s QB1, but not against Penn State or Indiana

October 8, 2026

Michigan’s quarterback situation has reached a critical juncture following a dismal offensive performance in the loss to Minnesota, which marked the worst outing since the 2024 defeat to Illinois. Head coach Kyle Whittingham has acknowledged the need for a reassessment, with starter Bryce Underwood drawing significant criticism from fans and pundits alike.

Despite his recruiting pedigree and financial commitment to the program, Underwood’s inconsistent play—highlighted by flashes of promise but persistent struggles—has raised serious questions about his long-term role as Michigan’s signal-caller. Freshman Tommy Carr has emerged as the likely successor, earning praise from Whittingham and the coaching staff for his potential, though his limited playing time leaves unanswered questions about his readiness.

While the temptation to accelerate Carr’s development is understandable, rushing him into action—especially against Penn State’s experienced defense—could compound the risks of an ill-timed transition. The offense’s broader issues also demand attention, making a hasty quarterback change premature without addressing systemic flaws.

For now, Michigan appears poised to use the upcoming bye week as a window to evaluate Carr’s progress, ensuring any shift at quarterback is driven by genuine confidence rather than desperation.