Kyle Whittingham Sends Clear Message on Bryce Underwood, Michigan’s Turnover Problems

Michigan head coach Kyle Whittingham isn't ready to panic after the Wolverines' recent struggles, but he made one thing clear Monday: the team's turnover problems have to be fixed.

Following consecutive losses to Iowa and Minnesota, Michigan used its bye week to evaluate its offensive struggles and determine how to move forward. Whittingham acknowledged the Wolverines took a step backward against Minnesota after showing signs of progress against Iowa, but he doesn't intend to overhaul the team heading into Saturday's game.

Instead, the focus remains on correcting mistakes, putting players in positions to succeed and finding a way to get the offense back on track.

Turnovers have been the biggest obstacle, and Whittingham reiterated that point multiple times during his Monday press conference. He also discussed his conversations with quarterback Bryce Underwood during the bye week, describing them as positive while emphasizing the importance of protecting the football.

Underwood remains Michigan's starting quarterback for now, but that doesn't mean his position is completely secure.

Whittingham confirmed that backup quarterback Tommy Carr took half of the first-team reps during the bye week by design. He stressed that the decision would have happened regardless of the team's recent results, suggesting Michigan wanted to evaluate Carr without necessarily making an immediate change.

However, Whittingham acknowledged that if the offense continues to struggle and the coaching staff believes Carr gives the Wolverines a better chance to win, a change could happen.

For now, Underwood remains the guy. But the message was unmistakable: The turnover problem cannot continue indefinitely without consequences.

Whittingham also pushed back against the idea that Michigan's offensive personnel might not fit offensive coordinator Jason Beck's system. He pointed to wide receivers Andrew Marsh and JJ Buchanan as players who have performed well and expressed confidence that the roster is capable of executing the offense.

The Wolverines will also continue utilizing the Rhino position, which remains an important component of Beck's offensive approach. Rather than abandoning the system after a disappointing stretch, Michigan intends to make adjustments that better accommodate its personnel and emphasize individual strengths.

There are some potential personnel developments ahead, although Whittingham doesn't anticipate any major changes for Saturday, except for punt returner. After some struggles back there, Andrew Marsh has been replaced, although Whittingham wouldn't say by who. Offensive lineman Andrew Babalola is expected to begin practicing this week, while Whittingham sounded doubtful that Andrew Sprague would return any time soon. He acknowledged being perplexed by Sprague's unavailability but declined to provide additional details.

Whittingham also addressed tight end Zack Marshall's recent comments, describing them as an error in judgment. Marshall apologized to both Whittingham and the team, and the coach emphasized that he considers Marshall a great young man while recognizing the frustration surrounding Michigan's struggles.

Despite the disappointing results, Whittingham said the bye week reinforced his belief in the team's resilience. He praised the players' energy and positive attitude throughout what has been a roller-coaster start to the season.

Michigan has plenty to address, particularly on offense, but Whittingham isn't ready to abandon the plan. The Wolverines will continue working to maximize their personnel and maintain confidence in Underwood.

Ultimately, though, that confidence comes with a condition. If the turnovers don't stop, Michigan may eventually have no choice but to make a change.