Michigan Football Poised for Surprise Season in 2026

Wolverines host Oklahoma in highly anticipated Week 2 matchup, QB Bryce Underwood primed for breakout year

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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Michigan football is generating significant preseason buzz heading into the 2026 season, with analysts predicting the Wolverines could be a surprise team and make a run at the College Football Playoff. The team's Week 2 matchup against Oklahoma is being highlighted as one of the most enticing early-season games, as the Wolverines look to avenge a loss to the Sooners last year. Quarterback Bryce Underwood, who struggled as a freshman, is expected to take a big leap forward under new offensive coordinator Jason Beck and QB coach Koy Detmer Jr. Additionally, Michigan's talented roster and the coaching staff's history of overachieving have experts forecasting the Wolverines as a team that could shock people this season.

Why it matters

Michigan has been in a bit of disarray in recent years, missing the College Football Playoff and struggling to live up to expectations. However, the hiring of former Utah coach Kyle Whittingham, along with key offensive additions, have the Wolverines poised to rebound in a big way and re-enter the national title conversation. A strong season from Underwood and a win over Oklahoma could propel Michigan back into the playoff picture.

The details

Michigan's Week 2 matchup against Oklahoma will be a rematch from last season, when the Wolverines traveled to Norman and were soundly defeated by the Sooners and quarterback John Mateer. This year, the game will be played in Ann Arbor, giving Michigan a chance to avenge that loss. Quarterback Bryce Underwood struggled as a true freshman last season, but the Wolverines have made key changes to their coaching staff that are expected to unlock his potential. New offensive coordinator Jason Beck and QB coach Koy Detmer Jr., both brought in from Utah, are tasked with developing Underwood into an elite signal-caller.

  • The Wolverines host the Sooners in Week 2 of the 2026 season (September 12, 2026).
  • Michigan fell to Oklahoma in an early-season matchup last year (2025 season).

The players

Bryce Underwood

Michigan's starting quarterback, who struggled as a true freshman last season but is expected to take a big leap forward under new offensive coordinator Jason Beck and QB coach Koy Detmer Jr.

John Mateer

Oklahoma's starting quarterback, who led the Sooners to a convincing win over Michigan in last year's matchup.

Kyle Whittingham

Michigan's new head coach, who previously led the Utah Utes program and is tasked with stabilizing the Wolverines and returning them to the College Football Playoff.

Jason Beck

Michigan's new offensive coordinator, who is expected to help develop quarterback Bryce Underwood after finding success with a similar quarterback at Utah.

Koy Detmer Jr.

Michigan's new quarterbacks coach, who will work closely with Bryce Underwood to help unlock his potential.

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What they’re saying

“I'll throw Oklahoma at Michigan on Sept. 12 into the conversation. The Sooners are coming off a banner season under Brent Venables, and with quarterback John Mateer back, they should have aspirations of returning to the playoff and potentially making a run. Kyle Whittingham, meanwhile, has stabilized a Michigan program that fell into disarray under Sherrone Moore. Whittingham succeeded in convincing ballyhooed quarterback Bryce Underwood to stick in Ann Arbor. This will be a prime opportunity for Underwood to show he can propel the Wolverines into playoff contention.”

— Jake Trotter, ESPN Analyst (ESPN)

“I agree with all of the above, but I'll add Michigan quarterback Bryce Underwood based on his potential. I am excited to see what new offensive coordinator Jason Beck is going to be able to do with him after seeing the success Beck had with Devon Dampier at both New Mexico and Utah. If he's able to have similar success with the Wolverines, there's no question Underwood will be one of the more impactful players this season.”

— Harry Lyes Jr. (ESPN)

“Along with Penn State, I wouldn't be surprised to see Michigan rebound in former Utah coach Kyle Whittingham's first season. Underwood is going to be great, and tailback Jordan Marshall and receiver Andrew Marsh have a chance to be very, very good. If John Henry Daley bounces back from a lower-leg injury, he'll be one of the best edge rushers in the country.”

— Mark Schlabach, ESPN Analyst (ESPN)

What’s next

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The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.