Underwood refines his elite arm with Jordan Palmer. This offseason masterclass signals Michigan's explosive offensive evolution under new coordinator Jason Beck.
Success in the modern era of college football isn't just about what happens during the designated practice windows in the fall; it’s about the obsessive refinement that takes place in the shadows of the offseason. For Michigan’s sophomore quarterback Bryce Underwood, the mission to evolve from a "promising freshman" to a "national juggernaut" led him to a familiar sun-drenched facility in Southern California this past week. Last season there were so many ups and downs for a young quarterback to navigate, and that showed time and time again when Bryce had a tough moment or a bad game.
Underwood, the crown jewel of Michigan’s "Team 147" movement, was spotted training with world-renowned quarterback architect Jordan Palmer. For Michigan fans, the sight of their QB1 working with the man who refined the mechanics of Josh Allen, Joe Burrow, and Patrick Mahomes isn't just a social media highlight, it’s a signal that Underwood is preparing to take the "Leap" that defines legendary Michigan signal-callers.
Refining the "Hollywood" Arm
Jordan Palmer’s "QB Summit" is widely regarded as the gold standard for elite quarterback development. Palmer’s philosophy focuses on "objective data over subjective opinion," utilizing biomechanical analysis to ensure every movement, from the plant of the back foot to the follow-through of the wrist, is maximized for efficiency and power.
For Underwood, who already possesses arguably the strongest arm in the Big Ten, the focus with Palmer likely centers on consistency and platform-less throwing. As a freshman, Underwood showcased a terrifying ability to drive the ball 60 yards downfield, but like most true freshmen, his footwork occasionally faltered under pressure.
The Jason Beck Connection
The timing of this training is particularly strategic. With the arrival of new offensive coordinator Jason Beck, the Wolverines are moving away from the run-heavy "Smash" identity of the past and toward a modern, vertical-attack system.
Beck’s history suggests an offense that thrives on "pro-style concepts with college-style tempo." This requires a quarterback who can process information quickly and deliver the ball with pinpoint accuracy in the intermediate passing game. By working with Palmer, Underwood is essentially getting a head start on the professional habits required to run Beck’s complex system.
Impact on the 2026 Offense
When Underwood returns to Ann Arbor for spring ball, he won't just be a year older; he’ll be more "efficient." A more disciplined Bryce Underwood changes the mathematical equation for opposing defensive coordinators.
- Exploiting the Deep Threat: With Andrew Marsh and Jaime Ffrench on the perimeter, a mechanically sound Underwood can hit those vertical shots with higher frequency and lower risk of interception.
- Red Zone Efficiency: Palmer’s drills often focus on "tight-window" throws. If Underwood can improve his accuracy in the condensed space of the red zone, Michigan’s scoring average (which hovered around 31 PPG last year) could easily jump into the 40s.
- Leadership by Example: Seeing the face of the program fly across the country to work on his craft on his own dime sends a massive message to the rest of the roster.
The Jordan Palmer Pedigree
Trainee
NFL Accomplishment
Joe Burrow
No. 1 Overall Pick / Super Bowl Appearance
Josh Allen
2x All-Pro / MVP Finalist
Patrick Mahomes
3x Super Bowl MVP
Bryce Underwood
Projected 2028 First Round Pick
The Verdict
The "LFG147" era is about more than just staying in town; it’s about becoming the best version of the program possible. By seeking out Jordan Palmer, Bryce Underwood has made it clear that he isn't satisfied with a 9-win season and a bowl loss. He is chasing greatness, and he is using the same blueprint that built the stars of the NFL.
If the 2025 season was Underwood’s introduction, the 2026 season, backed by Palmer’s training and Beck’s playbook, is shaping up to be his coronation.