ANN ARBOR, Mich. — Michigan is turning to a true freshman at quarterback. Tommy Carr is expected to make his first career start Saturday against defending national champion Indiana, taking over from former top recruit Bryce Underwood.
The switch follows last weekend, when Carr came on at halftime against Penn State and helped the Wolverines rally for a 21-18 victory. Underwood had thrown two interceptions in the first half and managed just 43 passing yards.
Carr’s numbers were modest. He hit 5 of 7 throws for 47 yards, but he did not turn the ball over and gave the offense a running threat, carrying four times for 36 yards, including the touchdown that put the game away.
Head coach Kyle Whittingham declined Monday to name his starter publicly but said the staff had settled on a plan. He praised Carr’s study habits and football IQ and said he has never been a fan of rotating two quarterbacks.
The offense needed a jolt. Michigan ranks 105th nationally in scoring at 22.7 points per game and 119th in pass plays of 20 or more yards, with just 13. In six starts, Underwood connected on 58.1% of his throws, with 924 yards through the air, five scoring passes and six picks.
Carr has deep Michigan roots. His grandfather is former Wolverines coach Lloyd Carr, his older brother CJ Carr plays quarterback at Notre Dame, and he signed with Michigan as a four-star prospect out of nearby Saline in the 2026 class.
His first start comes against one of the nation’s top defenses. Indiana enters looking to bounce back after letting its last game, against Ohio State, get away. Underwood is expected to serve as the backup.
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