ANN ARBOR, Mich. – Michigan Wolverines starting center Greg Crippen shared his thoughts on true freshman quarterback Bryce Underwood, comparing him to other quarterbacks he has encountered during his time in the program, as well as the offensive line’s progress during camp.
Crippen said what stands out most about Underwood is his humility despite high expectations.
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“He’s been really humble,” said Crippen. “I think he’s always been grounded and being a good person. On the field, how he controls the offense, his tempo—it’s relaxed, not frantic, which helps us a lot.”
Crippen added that protecting Underwood is a top priority.
“One of my jobs is making sure I’m taking a lot off his plate,” Underwood said. “Making sure our protections are right and just taking things off his plate in that sense.”
Journey to starter
Crippen reflected on his journey from not being named a starter last year to becoming the outright starter this year ahead of the home/season opener against the New Mexico Lobos inside The Big House in Ann Arbor at 7:30 p.m. on NBC.
“The biggest thing for me is the mental side,” Crippen said. “Confidence, positive thoughts, and growth. I have big expectations for myself this year and want to be the reason we keep winning.”
Brady Norton
Crippen also spoke about Brady Norton’s transition from an FCS offensive tackle to right guard.
“He kind of transformed his body, put on a lot of muscle mass,” Crippen said. “He’s done a great job being physical and developing at guard.”
O-line chemistry
Crippen also highlighted the offensive line’s improved chemistry.
“We took a lot of time hanging out together in the summer and winter,” Crippen said. “That’s helped us gel and work better as a group.”
Protecting Underwood
As the center, Crippen described his role in helping Underwood manage the offense.
“Taking as much off his plate as I can,” Crippen said. “He’s gotten a lot better at calling plays and communicating with us.”
Crippen also praised Trey Pierce’s development on defense.
“He does a good job of shedding blocks and staying in his gap,” Crippen said. “He’s making plays and growing a lot.”
O-line comparison
When asked to compare this group to past teams, Crippen said the line has a mix of experienced and younger players.
“We’ve really fired off the ball in camp,” Crippen said. “I’m really happy where we’re at and think we’re ready to make a huge impact.”
Running backs
Crippen commented on running backs Justice Haynes and Jordan Marshall.
“They run downhill, find gaps, and make big plays,” Crippen said. “They play physical football.”
Watching/protecting Underwood
Crippen shared how he watches Underwood after plays.
“We watch film and see the good plays,” Crippen said. “If he has a clean pocket, he does an amazing job.”
Finally, Crippen said the offensive line doesn’t feel extra pressure protecting Underwood.
“That’s our goal every game, no matter who the quarterback is,” Crippen said. “I want to be the best center in the country, and protecting Bryce is just the standard in our room.”