Kirk Herbstreit Angle: Michigan QB Change Revealed

Image Source: Yahoo Sports

Kirk Herbstreit is not mentioned in the latest report concerning Michigan’s quarterback decision, but the Wolverines have made a major change ahead of their matchup with Indiana. True freshman Tommy Carr is set to start for Michigan after replacing Bryce Underwood during the second half of the team’s 21-18 victory over Penn State.

According to multiple reports cited by Yahoo Sports, Michigan coach Kyle Whittingham has chosen Carr to lead the offense against the Hoosiers on Saturday. The move gives the young quarterback his first collegiate start and places him in a difficult spot against the defending national champions.

Kirk Herbstreit Not Connected to Michigan’s QB Decision

Although Kirk Herbstreit is widely associated with major college football coverage, the supplied Yahoo Sports report does not quote him or attribute any comment to him regarding Michigan’s quarterback switch. The report focuses on Whittingham’s decision, Carr’s performance against Penn State and Underwood’s recent struggles.

That distinction is important because quarterback changes often generate widespread debate among analysts and fans. However, there is no reported Kirk Herbstreit reaction in the source material. The central story is Michigan’s attempt to create more stability after an uneven start to the season.

Why Tommy Carr Earned the Starting Opportunity

Carr entered the Penn State game after halftime with Michigan trailing 3-0. Underwood had completed 5 of 11 passes for 43 yards and thrown two interceptions, including one late in the first half while Michigan was trying to move into field-goal range.

Carr immediately provided a different element to the Wolverines’ offense. He completed five of seven passes for 47 yards, rushed four times for 36 yards and scored the decisive touchdown on a 12-yard run. His 22-yard rush also helped energize a Michigan offense that had struggled to create momentum earlier in the contest.

The freshman’s performance did not produce overwhelming passing numbers, but it offered efficiency and playmaking at a critical moment. Carr protected the football, contributed as a runner and helped Michigan close out a narrow win over Penn State.

• Carr completed five of seven passes.
• He threw for 47 yards in limited action.
• He rushed four times for 36 yards.
• His 12-yard touchdown run became the game-winning score.

Bryce Underwood Faces a Critical Setback

Underwood entered the season as one of Michigan’s most highly regarded young players. The former five-star recruit started as a true freshman in 2025 and completed 60% of his passes for 2,428 yards, 11 touchdowns and nine interceptions. He also rushed for 392 yards and six scores.

His 2026 campaign has been more difficult. Through the numbers supplied in the report, Underwood is 72-of-124 passing for 924 yards, five touchdowns and six interceptions. He has also been sacked eight times while rushing for 223 yards and two touchdowns.

The transition has been complicated by Michigan’s coaching change. After Sherrone Moore’s firing, the Wolverines hired Whittingham, who brought offensive coordinator Jason Beck with him from Utah. Underwood is now adjusting to his second offensive system in as many seasons.

The quarterback’s benching does not necessarily end his role in the offense, but it creates real uncertainty. Michigan has a difficult decision to manage: continue developing its highly recruited sophomore or give Carr more opportunities after his strong appearance against Penn State.

Indiana Presents a Powerful First Test

Carr’s first start will come against an Indiana team that has established itself as one of the nation’s strongest programs. Yahoo Sports reported that the Hoosiers defeated Michigan 13-6 in overtime, with Carr starting and struggling to consistently move the offense.

That result shows the size of the challenge facing the freshman. Indiana’s defense can pressure quarterbacks, limit rushing lanes and force difficult decisions. Michigan will need Carr to stay composed, avoid costly turnovers and make enough plays to keep the Wolverines competitive.

If Carr performs well, Whittingham could have a difficult quarterback decision heading into Michigan’s Week 9 game against Rutgers. If the offense continues to struggle, Underwood may eventually receive another opportunity to reclaim the starting job.

What Comes Next for Michigan

The immediate focus is on whether Carr can turn a promising relief appearance into sustained production. His family background adds another layer to the story: he is the grandson of former Michigan coach Lloyd Carr and the younger brother of Notre Dame quarterback CJ Carr.

Still, the freshman will be judged primarily by what happens on the field. Michigan needs better execution, improved protection and more consistency from its passing game. While Kirk Herbstreit is not part of the supplied report, the quarterback competition itself is likely to remain one of college football’s most closely watched storylines.

Frequently Asked Questions

Did Kirk Herbstreit comment on Michigan’s quarterback change?

No. The supplied Yahoo Sports report does not include a comment or reaction from Kirk Herbstreit regarding Michigan’s decision to start Tommy Carr.

Who is starting at quarterback for Michigan?

Tommy Carr was selected to start for Michigan after replacing Bryce Underwood during the Wolverines’ win over Penn State.

How did Tommy Carr perform against Penn State?

Carr completed five of seven passes for 47 yards, rushed for 36 yards and scored a 12-yard touchdown that became Michigan’s winning score.

Why was Bryce Underwood replaced?

Underwood struggled against Penn State, completing 5 of 11 passes for 43 yards and throwing two interceptions before Carr entered the game.

Could Tommy Carr remain Michigan’s starter?

Yes. If Carr plays effectively, Whittingham could continue using him in future games, including Michigan’s Week 9 matchup with Rutgers.