From Michigan Wolverines On SI · · 2m
Michigan's Freshman Quarterback Carr Outperforms Underwood
Michigan's Tommy Carr leads comeback against Penn State after Bryce Underwood's turnovers.
In brief
Michigan's Tommy Carr leads comeback against Penn State after Bryce Underwood's turnovers. Michigan's freshman quarterback Tommy Carr outperformed Bryce Underwood in second-half performance to secure a 21-18 win over Penn State. Originally reported by Michigan Wolverines On SI.
Michigan bench Bryce Underwood
After making the move to bench Bryce Underwood in the second half against Penn State on Saturday, freshman Tommy Carr came in and sparked the Wolverines' offense.
Underwood's turnover issues
The key aspect of Underwood's benching was that he turned the ball over twice in the first half. Underwood now has six interceptions this season and has fumbled the ball a couple of times.
Klatt's analysis
After reviewing the tape, Joel Klatt believes Carr is the right answer for Michigan, and can't go back to the Bryce Underwood well, at least for now.
Klatt's quarterback standards
At the end of the day for a quarterback, your job is to go create first downs and score touchdowns.That's it.That's it.And the guy that does it the best goes out and plays.
Carr's second-half performance
They scored three touchdowns after the second half.Total yards first half 80.Total yards second half 221.Rushing yards first half 37.Rushing yards second half 174.Turnovers first half two.Turnovers second half zero.
Carr's defensive impact
The Wolverines' defense has been great this season and, Klatt believes Michigan needs a quarterback who will play turnover-free ball and give Michigan's defense a chance.
Carr's potential
So you stay with the variables in the equation that created the success of the second half. The defense deserves a chance for this team.
Michigan's hope for Underwood
Underwood was expected to take the next step in his development under Jason Beck, and if all went to plan, Underwood could've left for the NFL after the 2027 season.
Carr's first start
But that's not how things have turned out, and Carr is likely in line to start his first game as a Wolverine.
Carr's matchup challenge
Michigan was certainly hoping to not have its true freshman make his first career start against the reigning national champions coming off their first loss since the 2025 season.
Indiana's defensive threat
Indiana is likely going to be the toughest defensive line Michigan has faced all season. The Hoosiers are fourth in the country with 24 sacks this season.
Carr's earned opportunity
But we can't forget about the spark Carr gave Michigan's offense in the second half and neither has Kyle Whittingham.
The essence
Michigan's freshman quarterback Tommy Carr outperformed Bryce Underwood in second-half performance to secure a 21-18 win over Penn State.
