Urban Meyer says Michigan’s offensive line may be a bigger problem than Bryce Underwood
After a controversial 13–12 win over Western Michigan, Meyer has urged Michigan to return to basics before facing No. 11 Oklahoma.
Urban Meyer has warned that Michigan’s offensive-line problems may be more serious than quarterback Bryce Underwood’s struggles after the Wolverines’ narrow and controversial Week 1 win over Western Michigan.
Speaking on Fox Sports’ The Joel Klatt Show, Meyer said Michigan needed to “get back to the basics” before its Week 2 meeting with No. 11 Oklahoma. He said the quarterback remained an issue, but a poor offensive line could pose the greater threat to the team’s prospects.
According to Pro Football Focus figures cited in the report, Underwood was pressured on six of 26 dropbacks. Michigan recorded 106 rushing yards from 25 carries, had no individual rusher exceed 50 yards and did not produce a run longer than 15 yards.
Underwood completed 12 of 22 passes for 170 yards, one touchdown and one interception against Western Michigan, and lost a fourth-quarter fumble. His late Hail Mary touchdown, caught by JJ Buchanan, secured the 13–12 win after officials ruled that one second remained when the first attempt went out of bounds.
Meyer rejected the idea that toughness was Michigan’s central problem, saying the programme’s identity remained rooted in physicality. He also praised coach Kyle Whittingham, describing him as an exceptional coach facing the intensity and scrutiny surrounding the job.
Michigan retains Underwood as its starting quarterback for now, although the position has not been described as permanently secure. Meyer said the Oklahoma game could reveal the direction of the contest in the first quarter.
