Michigan is less than two weeks away from opening the 2026 season against Western Michigan on September 5. One of the biggest storylines remains the continued development of sophomore quarterback Bryce Underwood.
On Monday, wide receiver JJ Buchanan offered a clear and positive assessment of how far the former top recruit has come.
What Happened
Buchanan, a Utah transfer in his first season with the Wolverines, was asked about Underwood’s progress since arriving in Ann Arbor.
“Man, I just think that his work ethic is unmatched,” Buchanan said. “He is always trying to throw extra. He looks a lot better, a lot more calm in the pocket, like he has been saying. Yeah, he just looks super sharp and I am excited for a couple weeks.”
The comments align with recent reports from the coaching staff. Head coach Kyle Whittingham and offensive coordinator Jason Beck have both highlighted Underwood’s improved footwork, decision-making, and overall command of the offense throughout fall camp.
Why This Matters
Underwood’s freshman season was marked by inconsistency. He finished with 2,428 passing yards, 11 touchdowns, and nine interceptions while adjusting to Big Ten football without a dedicated quarterbacks coach on staff for much of the year.
This offseason brought significant changes. Whittingham’s staff includes a full-time quarterbacks coach in Koy Detmer, and the offense is being tailored more to Underwood’s strengths. Teammate feedback like Buchanan’s provides an on-the-ground view that the work is translating.
Key Details Fans Need to Know
Buchanan arrived from Utah with familiarity in the offensive system run by coordinator Jason Beck. As a true freshman with the Utes he recorded 26 catches for 427 yards and five touchdowns. He is expected to be one of Underwood’s primary targets alongside returning wide receiver Andrew Marsh.
Buchanan has repeatedly noted Underwood’s extra work after practice and his growing comfort in the pocket. Those traits, combined with better supporting pieces and scheme fit, form the foundation of optimism around the sophomore’s Year 2 leap.
Whittingham has described Underwood’s trajectory as positive, citing better pocket presence, improved mechanics, and cleaner decision-making.
What Happens Next
Michigan will continue fine-tuning the offense in the final practices before the Western Michigan opener. The true test of Underwood’s development will come against live competition, particularly once the schedule toughens with games against Oklahoma, Indiana, Oregon, and Ohio State.
A strong connection with Buchanan and Marsh would go a long way toward stabilizing the passing game and reducing the pressure that defined parts of Underwood’s freshman year.
The Bigger Picture
Year 2 quarterbacks often take significant steps when surrounded by better coaching, improved supporting talent, and a scheme that fits their skill set. Buchanan’s comments suggest those elements are aligning in Ann Arbor.
For Michigan, Underwood’s growth remains the single most important variable in determining how competitive the Wolverines can be in Kyle Whittingham’s first season.
FAQ Section
What did JJ Buchanan say about Bryce Underwood?
He praised Underwood’s unmatched work ethic, noted that he always throws extra, and said he looks calmer in the pocket and “super sharp.”
Is JJ Buchanan a new addition to Michigan?
Yes. He transferred from Utah, where he played his freshman season under Kyle Whittingham and Jason Beck.
How did Bryce Underwood perform as a freshman?
He threw for 2,428 yards with 11 touchdowns and nine interceptions in 13 games.
Has the coaching staff also praised Underwood’s progress?
Yes. Both Kyle Whittingham and Jason Beck have highlighted improvements in footwork, decision-making, and overall consistency during fall camp.
When does Michigan open the season?
September 5 at home against Western Michigan.
Reader Question
Do JJ Buchanan’s comments increase your confidence in Bryce Underwood taking a significant step forward in 2026?
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