🏈 Michigan vs Oklahoma – Tough Loss in Road Test
Norman, OK — Freshman quarterback Bryce Underwood faced his first hostile environment Saturday night, and the results were sobering for the Wolverines. Michigan fell 24–13 to Oklahoma in Norman, unable to find consistency on offense in its first major road test of the season.
Underwood’s Learning Curve
Underwood completed just 9-of-24 passes for 142 yards. After the game, head coach Sherrone Moore defended his quarterback’s effort but admitted the execution wasn’t there: “He handled the crowd noise and atmosphere and all that, fine. It was just the execution… That’s everybody. That’s not just him.”
The night marked a stark contrast from Underwood’s polished home debut against New Mexico, where he threw for over 250 yards. Against Oklahoma, missed reads and misfires prevented the Wolverines from sustaining drives.
Justice Haynes Flashes, Offensive Line Falters
Running back Justice Haynes provided Michigan’s biggest highlight, ripping off a 75-yard touchdown run on the first play of the second half. It was Michigan’s longest run since 2022 and cut the Sooners’ lead to one score. But outside of that burst, the offensive line failed to open consistent lanes, leaving Haynes with just 35 yards on his other 14 carries.
Oklahoma’s Balanced Attack
Sooners quarterback John Mateer, a transfer who has quickly fit into Oklahoma’s system, led with 270 passing yards and two rushing touchdowns. His composure frustrated Michigan’s defense, particularly late when he orchestrated a fourth-quarter touchdown drive capped by a two-point conversion to make it 24–13.
Execution Shortfalls and Coaching Insight
Michigan struggled badly on third down, converting only 3 of 14 attempts. Moore acknowledged the offense must improve collectively: “We didn’t get the quarterback in the rhythm we needed to… We just got to do better at that.”
Underwood did show flashes, including a 44-yard strike to Donaven McCulley in the second quarter. But those moments were too few to overcome inconsistent protection and miscues.
Outlook
Michigan remains a work in progress. The loss doesn’t end playoff hopes but highlights the steep learning curve ahead for its freshman quarterback. As competition stiffens, how quickly Underwood grows into the role — and how much the offensive line can support him — will define the Wolverines’ season.
