Michigan just handed Oklahoma a 17-10 loss, and what really sticks out is how Oklahoma head coach Brent Venables talked about Michigan quarterback Bryce Underwood afterward. It’s not every day an opposing coach goes this far with the praise, especially after a tough game like that.
Underwood’s Legs Make the Difference
The Wolverines were total underdogs, not expected to win this one by pretty much anyone, but they pulled it off in a close contest. Underwood was a huge part of that, absolutely tearing up Oklahoma on the ground. He racked up 87 rushing yards, including a monster 38-yard touchdown run. Sure, he only threw for 111 yards and completed 53% of his passes, but his legs made a massive difference against one of college football’s top defenses.
Venables Can’t Stop the Praise
Venables, a guy known as one of college football’s best defensive game planners, didn’t hold back on his compliments for Underwood. “He’s actually exactly who we thought he was,” Venables said. “A really talented guy. He’s big. He’s strong. He’s hard to get down one-on-one. He fell forward too often on the quarterback run game. He’s got a great future in front of him.” This isn’t a new thing either. Last year, Venables even compared Underwood to Jacksonville Jaguars QB Trevor Lawrence. And he was still saying great things about him earlier this week, even after Underwood struggled against Western Michigan in the season opener. Venables straight up called him “One of the most talented players at any position in all of college football. All of his best days are still in front of him.”
Saturday was a huge day for Underwood, proving everyone wrong. With Venables giving him such high praise, you’ve gotta believe his best days truly are still ahead, as long as he keeps that improvement going for himself and the entire Michigan squad.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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