Michigan Names Tommy Carr Starting Quarterback

Carr named starter for foreseeable future

Michigan head coach Kyle Whittingham announced on Monday that Tommy Carr is the team's starting quarterback for the foreseeable future.

The decision comes after Carr led Michigan to a 28-21 road victory against Rutgers on Saturday. Whittingham had previously been noncommittal about the starting role after Carr first replaced Bryce Underwood during an October 17 win over Penn State.

Freshman QB delivers strong performance

Carr made his second straight start against Rutgers and put together a complete performance. He finished the game with 266 passing yards and one touchdown through the air. Whittingham praised Carr's mobility, as the freshman added 54 rushing yards and two rushing touchdowns in the victory.

Through four games this season, Carr has completed 72.1% of his passes for 503 yards. Coming out of high school, he was a three star recruit and the number 24 pocket passer in the 2026 class.

Football runs in his family. Carr is the grandson of former Michigan head coach Lloyd Carr. He is also the younger brother of CJ Carr, who is the starting quarterback for Notre Dame.

Underwood moves to backup role

The move officially changes the depth chart for Michigan after Bryce Underwood struggled. Underwood arrived at Michigan as the top recruit in the 2025 class and served as the team's starter throughout last season.

However, Underwood struggled on the field this year before Whittingham decided to bench him during the Penn State game on October 17. Carr took over the offense during that game and has now earned the top spot on the depth chart.

Michigan will now prepare to host in state rival Michigan State on Saturday.

What it means for the next game

Michigan State Spartans at Michigan Wolverines (College Football, Sun, 08 Nov): Michigan Wolverines win 80%, Michigan State Spartans win 20%; projected score Michigan Wolverines 26, Michigan State Spartans 14. Our safest pick: Michigan to win.