Michigan coach weighs benching $12.5 million quarterback Bryce Underwood

Michigan head coach Kyle Whittingham has not ruled out benching quarterback Bryce Underwood, a $12.5 million NIL signee, following the Wolverines' second consecutive loss. Whittingham called the offense's results "unacceptable" and hinted at "tough decisions" after a 20-14 defeat to Minnesota dropped Michigan to 3-2. Underwood, who was flipped from LSU with a reported four-year NIL deal worth up to $12.5 million, has struggled as the offense has failed to move the ball or score reliably. Whittingham previously said after a controversial win over Western Michigan that Underwood's starting role was "not something that's infinite," though a subsequent victory over Oklahoma briefly quieted benching speculation. Michigan's wins have come against weak or struggling opponents, including UTEP and Oklahoma, while the loss to Minnesota featured three turnovers. Whittingham plans to meet with the entire offense to gather input, noting offensive coordinator Coach Beck's strong track record, as the team seeks to reverse its disappointing start to the season.