Michigan Wolverines Showcase Talent at Spring Game

Bryce Underwood, Tommy Carr, and the defensive line shine in annual exhibition match

Apr. 18, 2026 at 7:53pm

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A cubist-style painting depicting a Michigan football game, with players' forms broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes in shades of maize and blue, capturing the energy and intensity of the sport.Michigan's spring game showcased the team's defensive prowess and promising young talent, setting the stage for an exciting 2026 season.Ann Arbor Today

The Michigan Wolverines held their annual spring game on Saturday, with the Maize team defeating the Blue team 7-6 in a four-quarter exhibition at the Big House. Quarterback Bryce Underwood and running back Jordan Marshall stood out in the first quarter, while true freshman Tommy Carr impressed with his poise and decision-making in the second half. The defensive line, led by Benny Patterson, Travis Moten, and Enow Etta, dominated the offensive front throughout the game.

Why it matters

The spring game provided an early glimpse into the Wolverines' roster and depth chart ahead of the 2026 season. With several key contributors returning, Michigan is looking to build on its success from last year and compete for a Big Ten title. The performance of the offensive line and the development of the young talent, particularly at quarterback, will be crucial to the team's success.

The details

Most of the starters played in the first quarter, with the team running 'thud' football (two-hand touch) before transitioning to full tackling in the final three quarters. Underwood, the presumptive starting QB, completed 3-of-9 passes for 22 yards, while Marshall had a strong showing with five carries for 21 yards. In the second half, Carr and Chase Herbstreit split time at quarterback, with Carr impressing with his decision-making and mobility. On defense, the Wolverines' defensive line was dominant, with Patterson, Moten, and Etta consistently collapsing the pocket and disrupting the offense.

  • The spring game took place on Saturday, April 18, 2026.
  • The first quarter featured 'thud' football, with the starters playing a non-tackling period.
  • Quarters two through four were full-contact, tackle football.

The players

Bryce Underwood

The presumptive starting quarterback for the Wolverines, Underwood completed 3-of-9 passes for 22 yards in the first quarter.

Tommy Carr

The true freshman quarterback impressed in the second half, showcasing his decision-making and mobility.

Jordan Marshall

The junior running back had a strong showing, carrying the ball five times for 21 yards in the first quarter.

Benny Patterson

The defensive lineman was a standout performer, consistently collapsing the pocket and disrupting the offense.

Travis Moten

Another defensive lineman who stood out, Moten was a key part of the Wolverines' dominant defensive front.

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What they’re saying

“You can't take too much from a spring game, but Carr was impressive. He delivers a nice ball, good touch, and is sneaky quick. Carr fooled the defense several times by pulling the ball down and running for first downs.”

— Trent Knoop, Author

What’s next

The Wolverines will continue their offseason program and preparations for the 2026 season, with the focus on further developing the offensive line and quarterback position.

The takeaway

Michigan's spring game provided an early glimpse into the team's strengths and areas for improvement. The defensive line appears to be a strength, while the offensive line and quarterback battle will be key storylines to monitor as the Wolverines gear up for the upcoming season.