When Bryce Underwood, a freshman quarterback and the nation’s former No. 1 recruit, led the Michigan Wolverines to a 24‑10 victory over the Wisconsin Badgers at Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor on , the Wolverines improved to 4‑1 overall and 2‑0 in Big Ten play. The gameMichigan Stadium featured a sluggish first half, a dramatic halftime pep talk, and a second‑half surge that left Wisconsin chasing shadows.
Game Overview and Key Stats
Michigan started the day perched at No. 20 in the AP poll, while Wisconsin held a modest No. 23 ranking. Underwood threw for a season‑high 270 yards, completing 19 of 28 attempts and finding the end zone once. He was ably assisted by wideout Donaven McCulley, who hauled in a 29‑yard touchdown pass in the third quarter. On the ground, Alabama transfer Justice Haynes logged 117 rushing yards on 19 carries, marking his fourth straight 100‑plus‑yard outing. His second touchdown run came early in the fourth quarter, sealing the win.
Statistically, Michigan’s offense amassed 423 total yards, while Wisconsin was limited to 285. The Badgers’ defense, which had been allowing just 50 rushing yards per game (the best in the nation), suddenly found itself paying for a 43‑yard burst by Haynes that shattered that streak.
Turning Point: Halftime Adjustments
At the break, Michigan clung to a three‑point lead. Underwood later recalled the locker‑room mood: “We went into halftime saying we’re going to dominate.” The coaching staff switched to a faster tempo, applying pressure on Wisconsin’s linebackers and opening up the middle of the field for Haynes. The Wolverines’ offensive line, after a tentative first half, found its rhythm and gave Underwood the pocket time he needed.
The change paid off instantly. On the opening drive of the third quarter, Underwood threaded a precise ball to McCulley for the 29‑yard score that pushed the lead to 17‑10. Two drives later, Haynes slipped through a gap on the right side and punched in his second short‑yard touchdown, extending the margin to 24‑10.
Standout Performances: Underwood, Haynes, and McCulley
Underwood’s poise was surprising for a true freshman. He shrugged off a few dropped passes, telling reporters, “Good play, bad play – next play. If you’re stuck on the last play, you’ll be stuck on the next one.” His 270 yards not only eclipsed his previous best but also placed him among the top five freshman passers this season.
Haynes, who transferred from Alabama after his sophomore year, continued to prove his worth. His 43‑yard dash early in the second half was the longest run allowed by Wisconsin all season, and his second touchdown run – a 5‑yard dive – capped a stunning personal streak of four consecutive 100‑yard games.
McCulley, a junior from Detroit, posted three receptions for 86 yards. His 29‑yard strike was the game‑changing play, and his ability to create separation after the halftime adjustments highlighted Michigan’s improved route concepts.
Defensive Impact and Rod Moore’s Return
Defensively, Michigan benefited from the return of safety Rod Moore, who sported his classic No. 19 jersey for the first time this season. Moore recorded a crucial deflection in the fourth quarter that helped preserve the lead. The Wolverines held Wisconsin to just 10 points, forcing three punts inside the 20‑yard line and registering two sacks.
Coach Jim Harbaugh praised the unit: “Our defense gave the offense the breath they needed after a slow start. Moore’s comeback added a spark, and everyone stepped up when it mattered.”
Implications for the Big Ten Race and Future Outlook
With the win, Michigan sits atop the East Division at 2‑0, while Wisconsin slips to 1‑1. The victory not only boosts the Wolverines’ confidence but also sends a message to rivals like Ohio State and Penn State that Michigan can adjust mid‑game and dominate late‑stage drives.
Looking ahead, Michigan faces a pivotal clash against No. 5 Ohio State on November 14 at Columbus. If Underwood continues to refine his decision‑making and Haynes maintains his rushing cadence, the Wolverines could be poised for a college‑football playoff berth.
Historical Context: Michigan‑Wisconsin Rivalry
Michigan and Wisconsin have met 136 times, with the Wolverines leading the series 73‑57‑6. The last meeting in 2023 ended in a 31‑24 Michigan win, and the 2025 result reinforces the modern trend of Michigan pulling ahead in recent decades. The game also marked the first time since 2019 that a Michigan freshman quarterback led the team to a conference win.
Fans in Ann Arbor celebrated with a post‑game pep rally outside the stadium, chanting “Go Blue!” and waving flag‑bearing banners that read “Underwood – Future Heisman?” and “Haynes – Rushing Royalty.” The atmosphere echoed the excitement that has defined Michigan football for more than a century.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does this win affect Michigan’s chances in the Big Ten Championship?
The victory puts Michigan at the top of the East Division at 2‑0, giving them a tiebreaker edge over Ohio State and Penn State. If they sustain the momentum, they’re likely to secure a spot in the conference title game.
What contributed most to Wisconsin’s offensive struggles?
Wisconsin’s rushing attack, normally a strength, was stifled by Haynes’s 43‑yard burst and a disciplined Michigan front seven. Their passing game also faltered after under‑cut coverage on Underwood’s third‑quarter strike.
Is Bryce Underwood likely to be a Heisman candidate this season?
Underwood’s poise and statistical output (270 passing yards, 1 TD, 0 INT) have put him on early Heisman watchlists. Continued consistency against top opponents will be key to his candidacy.
How significant was Rod Moore’s return to the defense?
Moore’s comeback added a veteran’s instincts to the secondary. His crucial fourth‑quarter deflection helped preserve the lead and signals that Michigan’s defense is returning to full strength after injuries.
What does Justice Haynes’ streak tell us about Michigan’s running game?
Haynes’ fourth consecutive 100‑yard performance underscores the depth and balance of Michigan’s offense. It shows that the Wolverines can lean on the ground game to control tempo, especially after halftime adjustments.
