Photos: Five-star quarterback commit Bryce Underwood visits LSU in full Tigers gear amid Michigan flip rumor

By Maliha

Modified Nov 10, 2024 14:24 GMT

Follow Us

Share

1 Discuss

Five-star quarterback Bryce Underwood committed to LSU in January, but he is again in the recruitment discussion from last month. Amid his flip rumor to Michigan, Underwood touched down in Baton Rouge this weekend for the Alabama game.

Underwood made quite an impression at LSU, sporting the Tigers' jewelry while touring campus with his family. The trip was part of his multi-day stay in Baton Rouge. Unfortunately, he saw the No. 14 Tigers struggle against No. 11 Alabama, suffering a 42-13 loss. The tough game also saw LSU fans starting to exit the stadium by the end of the third quarter.

Talking back about Underwood's recruitment, the signal-caller plays for Belleville High School, which is about a 20-minute drive east of Michigan Stadium. The Wolverines coaching staff are leaving no stone unturned to flip him for their 2025 class, which still lacks a quarterback.

Bryce Underwood delivered a strong performance in Belleville's 42-7 victory over Saline in the district championship game on Friday, throwing for 217 yards and three touchdowns along with 63 rushing yards and another touchdown. The matchup was attended by hundreds of Michigan fans eager to show their support and influence his decision.

Michigan is also targeting Underwood's Belleville teammate, Elijah Dotson, a four-star athlete currently committed to Pittsburgh.

Bryce Underwood's NIL deal is rumored to be closer to $10 million

Earlier this month, Pete Nakos from On3 reported that Michigan's donors have gone all-in on supporting the school to secure Bryce Underwood. After losing their sole committed quarterback, Carter Smith, fans even offered an eye-catching NIL deal initially valued around $5 million.

However, CBS Sports’ Richard Johnson clarified this week that Michigan's NIL package may actually be closer to $10 million over several seasons. Despite the sizable financial incentives, it seems that money alone will not be enough to sway Underwood’s commitment away from LSU.

Underwood’s father, Jaquan, clarified in June during an interview at the On3 Elite Series that the family was prioritizing Bryce’s long-term dreams over financial offers. On3's Steve Wiltfong also gave an update about Underwood recruitment, reporting:

"Michigan has been trying to make a final pitch to Underwood and his family in trying to persuade him to stay closer to home, but everything has been status quo with LSU. Underwood’s communication with the staff, recruits and excitement to play in Baton Rouge has not wavered."

The early signing period for the 2025 recruiting class approaches on Dec. 4, and Bryce Underwood is expected to be pursued more heavily by Michigan in the upcoming days.