Kyle Whittingham confirmed Bryce Underwood remains Michigan's starting quarterback following the conclusion of spring training camp. While Underwood holds the top spot, freshman Tommy Carr emerged as a significant threat during the annual scrimmage.

The decision provides clarity for the Wolverines' offensive strategy heading into 2026.

“Bryce is our starter right now, and that’s not any different after today,” Whittingham said after the game, “but Tommy has really made strides and really has a great pocket presence and escapability. He can extend plays, keeps his eyes downfield. All the things you look for in a big-time quarterback, Tommy possesses those.”

Tommy Carr kept things sharp and efficient, completing 21 of 30 passes for 143 yards while flashing the quick decision-making that stood out to Kyle Whittingham this spring. At 6-foot-4, he also showed sneaky mobility, tucking the ball and taking off when the defense opened up space.

The younger brother of CJ Carr and grandchild of the previous Michigan head coach Lloyd Carr, Carr became known as a “pleasant surprise” throughout the training camp due to his skill set of extending the play, being comfortable operating in the pocket, and handling pressure well.

Michigan presently has two quarterbacks, Brayden Fowler-Nicolosi and Colin Hurley, but Carr is still the most important backup quarterback.

Brayden Fowler-Nicolosi brings nearly 7,000 passing yards from Colorado, making him the natural favorite for the backup role. But Tommy Carr has turned heads this spring.

Michigan's Spring Game

The Michigan Wolverines football stepped into a new chapter under Kyle Whittingham, but their Spring Game quickly became less about systems and more about a breakout name.

It was the Tommy Carr show. The freshman split reps across both teams and delivered the most efficient outing of the day, going 6-of-8 for 39 yards in the first half alone while repeatedly extending drives with his legs.

On the other side, Bryce Underwood had flashes but struggled to find rhythm, finishing the first half just 3-of-9 for 22 yards. He showed his mobility with a few key scrambles and connected on a chunk play to Eli Owens, but sacks and defensive pressure stalled several drives.

The numbers reflected the tone of the game. Just nine total points, a 7-6 finish, and multiple stalled red-zone trips told the story. Still, between Carr’s efficiency, Underwood’s flashes, and a late goal-line score to seal it, Michigan walked away with a real quarterback battle beginning to take shape in Ann Arbor.

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Written by

Debanjali Rakshit

Edited by

Aadesh Dhote