For Michigan, this spring is about alignment—bringing together a new staff, developing elite talent, and preparing for a season where expectations never seem to dip.

Kyle Whittingham’s First Spring in Ann Arbor

Spring practice marks the first opportunity for head coach Kyle Whittingham to fully implement his vision with the Wolverines. While Whittingham’s reputation has long been built on toughness, discipline, and fundamentally sound football, spring ball is where those traits begin to take shape on the field.

For players, the early weeks of spring can be an adjustment. New terminology, new practice tempo, and new expectations are all part of the process when a coaching staff changes. But Whittingham’s approach has historically emphasized physicality and accountability—two things that tend to resonate quickly with veteran players.

The Wolverines built their identity in recent years on a strong running game and a physical defense. Under Whittingham, those pillars are expected to remain intact. What will be interesting to watch this spring is how Michigan blends its traditional style with the ideas of a new offensive staff.

Bryce Underwood’s Critical Second Spring

While coaching transitions often dominate the headlines, the development of quarterback Bryce Underwood may be the most important storyline of the entire spring.

Underwood arrived in Ann Arbor with enormous expectations as arguably the most highly touted quarterback recruit in program history. His freshman season provided flashes of why he was so coveted: elite arm talent, athleticism, and the confidence to make difficult throws.

But the biggest jump for many quarterbacks comes between their first and second seasons in a program.

This second spring will allow Underwood to take on a much different role than he had a year ago. Instead of learning the basics of college football and adjusting to the speed of the game, he now has a year of experience in the system, a full offseason in the weight program, and a clearer understanding of what it takes to lead a Big Ten program.

Spring practices will give him valuable reps with the first-team offense, time to build chemistry with receivers, and an opportunity to take command in the huddle. Coaches often talk about quarterbacks “owning” the offense, and this is the stage of development where that typically begins.

If Underwood takes the expected leap, Michigan’s offensive ceiling rises significantly.

Jason Beck Brings a New Offensive Direction

Helping guide that development will be new offensive coordinator Jason Beck, whose arrival adds another intriguing element to Michigan’s spring.

Every coordinator brings his own philosophy, and spring practice is where the initial framework of that system begins to take shape. For Beck, the challenge will be balancing innovation with what has historically worked for Michigan.

The Wolverines have long leaned on physical offensive line play and a productive rushing attack. But with a quarterback like Underwood, there is also the opportunity to expand the passing game and create more explosive plays.

Spring practice will likely be filled with experimentation. Coaches will test formations, evaluate personnel groupings, and determine which players best fit specific roles in Beck’s system. It’s also the time when younger players can emerge and force their way into the rotation.

While the playbook won’t be fully revealed until the fall, these early practices often hint at how an offense will evolve.

Position Battles and Emerging Talent

Beyond the quarterback and coaching storylines, spring football always brings competition across the roster.

Depth chart battles are common during this period, especially at positions where Michigan lost veteran leadership. Offensive line combinations will be tested, young receivers will try to earn trust, and defensive players will look to prove they belong in the two-deep rotation.

For younger players, spring practice is often the first real opportunity to show they can contribute. With 15 practices and a spring game at the end of the schedule, coaches get an extended look at players in live situations.

It’s also a time when the coaching staff begins identifying future leaders within the locker room.

Building Toward the Fall

Spring football rarely provides definitive answers, but it often reveals the direction of a program.

For Michigan, the 2026 spring period represents a fresh chapter. A respected head coach is establishing his culture. A highly talented quarterback is entering a crucial stage of development. And a new offensive coordinator is laying the foundation for what the Wolverines hope will be a dynamic attack.

By the time the spring game arrives, fans may not know exactly what the finished product will look like in the fall. But they should have a much clearer sense of the identity Michigan is trying to build.

And in a program where expectations remain as high as ever, that identity will matter just as much as the results that follow.

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In Columbus, Ohio State looked like a team intent on leaving nothing to chance. The Buckeyes, ranked No. 1, dismantled Rutgers 42–9 in a performance that was as clinical as it was ruthless. Quarterback Julian Sayin directed the offense with poise, spreading the ball to a deep cast of receivers while the ground game churned out steady yardage. The defense, meanwhile, suffocated Rutgers from the opening snap, stifling the offense and forcing punts that kept the Scarlet Knights from ever threatening. It was the kind of win that underscored Ohio State’s identity: efficient, relentless, and undefeated heading into “THE GAME.” Ohio State is undefeated at 11-0, while Rutgers sits at 5-6 as the Scarlet Knights need one more win for bowl game eligibility.

Michigan, their eternal rival, answered in kind. The Wolverines traveled to College Park and, after a shaky first quarter, rolled past Maryland 45–20. Freshman quarterback Bryce Underwood showed flashes of brilliance, throwing multiple touchdown passes and displaying the composure of a veteran. Running back Bryson Kuzdzal provided balance, pounding out tough yards and breaking free for a long score that broke the game open. Michigan’s defense, though tested early, tightened as the game wore on. With the win, the Wolverines improved to 9–2, ensuring that next week’s clash with Ohio State will carry not only the weight of tradition but the gravity of playoff implications. Maryland fell to 4-7 on the season, and will miss a bowl game after the regular season concludes.

Elsewhere, Iowa survived a scare in Iowa City. The Hawkeyes edged Michigan State 20–17 on a late field goal as time expired, a win that preserved their path to a strong bowl bid. It was not pretty—few Iowa victories are—but it was emblematic of the program’s resilience. Michigan State, already out of bowl contention, nearly spoiled the Hawkeyes’ season, and have to deal with another heartbreaking loss. Iowa is now 7-4 for the season, while Michigan State fell to 3-8, and the Spartans are still seeking their first Big Ten win of the season.

Penn State, under interim coach Terry Smith, fought to keep its season alive. Hosting Nebraska under the lights at Beaver Stadium, the Nittany Lions handled the Cornhuskers, 37-10. Nebraska is now at 7-4, hoping to regain some positive momentum heading into the final week of the regular season. For Penn State, a program in transition, it was a moment of pride and survival, keeping bowl hopes intact, as the Nittany Lions are now 5-6 on the season.

In Chicago, Northwestern and Minnesota staged a back and forth struggle at Wrigley Field. The Wildcats emerged 38-35, rallying from a 28-13 deficit in the second half. With the win, Northwestern ensured themselves a bowl game, as they now sit at 6-5 on the season. For Minnesota, the frustration of not winning a road game in 2025 manifested itself in the most painful fashion, as Northwestern kicked the winning field goal in the final seconds of the game. Minnesota now sits at 6-5 for the season.

Wisconsin, meanwhile, protected home turf in Madison, dispatching Illinois 27-10. The Badgers leaned on their rushing attack to wear down the Illini, who saw their postseason hopes dim further. It was a workmanlike win, the kind Wisconsin was hoping for from Luke Fickell when Fickell arrived to take over the program. Illinois is now at 7-4, while Wisconsin has improved to 4-7 this season.

Oregon defeated USC 42-27 in Autzen Stadium. The victory by the Ducks may have eliminated the Trojans from any possibility of a College Football Playoff berth, while also ensuring Oregon of a probable home game in the first round. Oregon now sits at 10-1, while USC fell to 8-3, and USC head coach Lincoln Riley is tasked with rallying the Trojans for the final game of the regular season.

Washington had little difficulty with UCLA, defeating the Bruins 48-14. Washington improved to 8-3, while UCLA is now at 3-8, and the glow of the three game winning streak by the Bruins in the middle of the 2025 season is looming more like a distant memory.

Taken together, the day’s results clarified the Big Ten’s hierarchy. Ohio State remains the standard-bearer, a machine rolling toward the playoff. Michigan lurks with renewed confidence, ready to test the Buckeyes in Ann Arbor. Rutgers and Penn State cling to their postseason ambitions, while Northwestern and Iowa remind the league of its depth.

And then there is Indiana, idle but undefeated, waiting in the wings for its first Big Ten title game appearance since 1945. Oregon, too, looms as part of the expanded Big Ten picture, its win over USC keeping it firmly in the national conversation.

November 22 was not about chaos. It was about inevitability. The giants held their ground, the contenders survived, and the conference’s storylines converged on what comes next. Rivalry week will decide not only bragging rights but the future of the College Football Playoff. For Ohio State and Michigan, the stakes are as high as they have ever been. For Iowa and Penn State, survival remains the theme. And for the league as a whole, the drama of late November is alive and well.

The Big Ten has always thrived on tradition, but this season it thrives on possibility. November 22 was the calm before the storm. Now, the storm arrives.

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In Madison, No. 1 Ohio State overwhelmed Wisconsin 34–0, pitching a shutout and scoring 27 points in the second half. The Buckeyes’ defense stifled the Badgers’ run game, while quarterback Julian Sayin led a balanced offensive attack that kept Ohio State undefeated. Wisconsin fell to 2-5, and are now 0-4 in The Big Ten.

Michigan rebounded from its loss to USC with a 24–7 win over Washington. The Wolverines leaned on running back Jordan Marshall, whose third-quarter touchdown gave Michigan the lead for the remainder of the contest. Quarterback Bryce Underwood managed the game efficiently, helping Michigan stay in playoff contention. Michigan improved to 5-2 and are 3-1 in The Big Ten, while Washington is also 5-2 and are now 2-2 in the conference standings.

Indiana continued its surprising run with a 38–13 rout of Michigan State. The Hoosiers scored in every quarter and forced multiple turnovers, improving to 7–0 on the season. Michigan State fell to 3-4 overall, and are 0-4 in Big Ten play.

Elsewhere, Oregon dismantled Rutgers 56–10 in a lopsided affair that showcased the Ducks’ explosive offense. Northwestern shut out Purdue 19–0, controlling possession and tempo throughout. Oregon is 6-1 overall, and 3-1 in Big Ten play. Northwestern improved to 5-2 on the season, and are also 3-1 in conference play. Both Rutgers and Purdue are 0-4 in Big Ten play, with Rutgers sitting at 3-4 on the season and Purdue at 2-5.

Minnesota’s defense dominated Nebraska, sacking quarterback Dylan Raiola nine times en route to a 24–6 victory. Running back Darius Taylor rushed for 148 yards, anchoring the Gophers’ ground game. Minnesota improved to 3-1 in conference play, and are 5-2 overall. Nebraska is now 2-2 in Big Ten play, and 5-2 on the season.

In non-conference action, Notre Dame defeated USC 34-24 in South Bend. This game did not impact USC within The Big Ten conference race, but the Trojans are now 5-2 on the season, and have little to no wiggle room for a spot in The College Football Playoff. Talks are ongoing between the two longtime rivals, but this could be the last game in the series for the foreseeable future.

In the weekend’s closest contest, Iowa edged Penn State 25–24 in a back-and-forth battle. Special teams proved decisive, with Iowa converting a late field goal to seal the win. Iowa is 5-2 on the season, with a 3-1 conference record. Penn State, which began the season with so much promise, has fallen to 3-4 on the season, and 0-4 in Big Ten play.

UCLA held off Maryland 20–17 in a gritty, low-scoring affair. The Bruins’ defense made key stops in the fourth quarter to preserve the victory. UCLA improved to 3-4 for the season, and are 3-1 within Big Ten play. Maryland suffered its third straight close loss, falling to 4-3 for the season and are 1-3 within conference play.

Illinois was the only conference team that sat idle this past weekend with a bye. With Ohio State and Indiana still undefeated, and a logjam of seven teams with only one conference loss, the Big Ten’s playoff picture is beginning to take shape. Meanwhile, five Big Ten teams are facing tough questions heading into Week 9, as Michigan State, Penn State, Purdue, Rutgers, and Wisconsin are all seeking their first Big Ten win for the 2025 season.

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Are Ohio State And Indiana On A Collision Course For December 6th?

Ohio State, ranked No. 1, continued its march toward the College Football Playoff with a 34–16 win over No. 17 Illinois in Champaign. Despite being outgained in total yardage, the Buckeyes capitalized on three Illini turnovers, converting each into touchdowns. Their defense bent but never broke, and quarterback Julian Sayin had an efficient, if not gaudy, day running the offense.

Meanwhile, No. 7 Indiana stunned No. 2 Oregon 30–20 in Eugene, handing the Ducks their first Big Ten loss since joining the conference. Quarterback Fernando Mendoza led the Hoosiers with 215 passing yards and a touchdown, while the defense sealed the win with two fourth-quarter interceptions. Head coach Curt Cignetti’s squad is now poised for its highest ranking in decades, and with no regular-season matchup against Ohio State, a Big Ten Championship showdown between the two is increasingly likely.

Let’s Get Physical

In Los Angeles, USC made a statement by defeating No. 15 Michigan 31–13. Jayden Maiava threw for 265 yards and King Miller added 158 rushing yards, overwhelming a Wolverines team led by freshman phenom Bryce Underwood. Michigan’s offense showed flashes, including a 69-yard touchdown to Andrew Marsh, but couldn’t close the gap late.

“Been To The Edge…”

Nebraska edged Maryland 34–31 in a back-and-forth contest at SECU Stadium, while Minnesota held off Purdue 27–20 at home. Adding insult to injury for Maryland and Purdue is how both teams held the lead in their respective games, but were unable to maintain them.

Washington = The Rodney Dangerfield Of College Football

Washington defeated Rutgers 38–19 on Friday night, with a strong second-half surge. Just as Washington did versus Maryland on October 4th, the Huskies spotted the Scarlet Knights the early lead, before taking the lead in the second half. With Washington going on the road to face Michigan on October 18th, the Huskies will need to avoid a sluggish start. Despite a 5-1 record, Washington remains unranked.

Something Is A ‘Bruin’

Any thoughts that the UCLA win over Penn State on October 4th was a blip on the college football radar screen were quickly answered as the Bruins went to East Lansing and dominated Michigan State, 38-13. UCLA is now 2-4 on the season, and 2-1 in conference play. Michigan State sits at 3-3 on the season, and is 0-3 in Big Ten play.

Penn State Pulls The Plug

After the shocking loss at UCLA, the conventional wisdom was that Penn State would regroup at home versus Northwestern. The Wildcats had other ideas, and pulled off a shocking 22-21 win at Penn State. Penn State was a three touchdown favorite.

Penn State, despite the hefty buyout figure, decided that the James Franklin era had run its course, and relieved the coach of his duties on October 12th. Rumors and speculation will now run rampant on who the next Nittany Lions head coach will be for the remainder of the season.

Badgers Are Looking Bleak

Iowa went into Camp Randall Stadium and had no problem handling Wisconsin, shutting the Badgers out to a score of 37-0. Luke Fickell seemed shellshocked after the loss, and has to regroup for a visit from Ohio State on October 18th. Iowa is now 4-2 on the year, and 2-1 in The Big Ten. Wisconsin sits at 2-4, with an 0-3 record within The Big Ten. Wisconsin, Purdue, Rutgers, Michigan State, and Penn State are all seeking their first Big Ten win this season.

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Ohio State Crushes Minnesota, Stays No. 1

The Buckeyes showed no mercy at home in Columbus, dismantling Minnesota 42–3 behind a balanced offensive attack and suffocating defense. Quarterback Julian Sayin threw for multiple touchdowns, including two to standout receiver Jeremiah Smith, while running backs CJ Donaldson and Bo Jackson each found the end zone. Ohio State improved to 5–0 and solidified its grip on the top spot nationally.

UCLA Shocks No. 6 Penn State in Pasadena

In one of the most stunning results of the season, previously winless UCLA stunned Penn State 42–37 at the Rose Bowl. Tennessee transfer Nico Iamaleava accounted for five touchdowns and 294 total yards, carving up a Nittany Lions defense that had been elite through September. Despite a late rally, Penn State fell to 3–2, with fans calling for changes after another high-profile collapse.

Michigan Handles Wisconsin Behind Haynes’ Heroics

No. 20 Michigan rolled past Wisconsin 24–10 in Ann Arbor, thanks to 117 rushing yards and two touchdowns from Justice Haynes. The Wolverines overcame an early deficit and dominated the second half, improving to 4–1. Bryce Underwood added a 29-yard touchdown pass to Donaven McCulley, while the defense sacked Wisconsin’s third-string quarterback Hunter Simmons twice and forced a key interception.

Illinois Offense Explodes in Win Over Purdue

No. 22 Illinois lit up the scoreboard in West Lafayette, dropping 43 points on Purdue in a 43–27 road win. The Fighting Illini moved to 5–1, showcasing their offensive depth versus a scrappy Boilermakers defense.

Washington Rallies to Hand Maryland First Loss

Maryland led 20–3 entering the fourth quarter, but Washington stormed back with 21 unanswered points to steal a 24–20 win. The Terrapins suffered their first loss of the season, while Washington moved to 4-1 with a gritty road victory.

Nebraska Bounces Back, Tops Michigan State

After a tough loss to Michigan two weeks prior, Nebraska rebounded with a 38–27 win over Michigan State in Lincoln. The Cornhuskers leaned on their ground game led by Emmett Johnson and timely defense to improve to 4–2.

Northwestern Crushes UL Monroe

In non-conference action, Northwestern handled UL Monroe 42-7 to move to 3–2, showing resilience after a rocky start to the season. Northwestern quarterback Preston Stone had a strong game, with 262 yards passing and 3 touchdowns.

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Michigan head coach Sherrone Moore gave his reasons for naming Underwood the starter at his press conference on August 25th, saying, “Bryce Underwood will be our starting quarterback…I’ll confirm that. He’s earned the opportunity. It was not given to him. All the other quarterbacks had a really good camp as well. I really thought Jadyn Davis has come along and taken the next steps. He’ll be the two behind him. He’s done a really good job.”.

Underwood was considered the top high school recruit in the country when he signed with Michigan. Underwood will be the first true freshman to start at quarterback for the Wolverines since the 2009 season, when Tate Forcier was named the starter.

Here’s the full list of Michigan’s true freshman Week 1 starters at QB:

• 1975 Rick Leach (Michigan 23, Wisconsin 6)
• 2004 Chad Henne (Michigan 43, Miami of Ohio 10)
• 2009 Tate Forcier (Michigan 31, Western Michigan 7)
• 2025 Bryce Underwood (TBD versus New Mexico)

The oddsmakers have posted the spread at -36.5 in favor of Michigan going into this contest. For a true freshman, even one as talented as Underwood, it will be interesting to see how he plays for a Michigan offense that struggled tremendously throughout the 2024 season at scoring points.

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