At a Glance
- Texas’ Arch Manning and Michigan’s Bryce Underwood are first-year starters who were top recruits.
- Manning finished the season with 2,942 passing yards, 24 touchdowns, 7 interceptions, and 8 rushing scores.
- Underwood ended with 2,229 yards, 9 touchdowns, 6 interceptions, and 5 rushing touchdowns after signing a $10-12 million NIL deal.
- Why it matters: The two quarterbacks not only led their teams to strong seasons but also highlight the growing influence of NIL deals and coaching narratives in college football.
In the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl, the spotlight falls on two first-year quarterbacks, Texas’ Arch Manning and Michigan’s Bryce Underwood, both top recruits who have already made significant impacts on the field. Their performances and high-profile NIL deals underscore how talent, opportunity, and media attention converge in modern college football.
Quarterback Showdown
Manning, who took over after two seasons as a backup, entered the bowl as a seasoned starter with impressive stats. Underwood, a true freshman who flipped his commitment from LSU, stepped into the starting role immediately after arriving in Ann Arbor.
- Arch Manning: 2,942 passing yards, 24 TDs, 7 INTs, 8 rushing scores.
- Bryce Underwood: 2,229 passing yards, 9 TDs, 6 INTs, 5 rushing scores.
Coaching Perspectives
Michigan interim head coach Biff Poggi praised Manning’s composure in a spotlight while criticizing reporters for creating a “lowest depths of hell” narrative.
Biff Poggi said:
> “The way he has carried himself in a pretty intense spotlight is amazing. He’s an unbelievable player; he’s everything they say he is. He’s an outstanding leader, and as a player, he can do it all.”
Biff Poggi added:
> “You all tend to bless people to the highest highs, and the first time they should make a mistake, you like to drag them to the lowest depths of hell. The truth is somewhere way in the middle.”
Jim Sarkisian said:
> “It’s really hard to play quarterback at the level we play at as a true freshman. There’s some adversity along the way as a true freshman quarterback, and his stick-to-it-ness is a credit to not only him but everyone in the program.”
He also noted their fun side:
> “There’s Bryce and Arch, having a great time. They’re just two guys who are enjoying an amusement park… that’s what you enjoy about both of them.”
| Quarterback | Passing Yards | Touchdowns | Interceptions | Rushing Scores |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arch Manning | 2,942 | 24 | 7 | 8 |
| Bryce Underwood | 2,229 | 9 | 6 | 5 |
The bowl game will test how these quarterbacks perform under postseason pressure.
Key Takeaways
- Manning’s experience and high yardage make him a formidable threat.
- Underwood’s rapid rise and sizable NIL deal reflect changing dynamics in college football.
- Coaching comments highlight the media scrutiny and leadership expectations for young quarterbacks.
As the Citrus Bowl approaches, fans will watch whether Manning’s seasoned play and Underwood’s fresh energy can carry their teams to victory, while the broader story of NIL and coaching narratives continues to shape the sport.
