Michigan needed a second-half quarterback change against Penn State as starting quarterback Bryce Underwood struggled through the first two quarters, completing 5-of-11 passes for 43 yards with two interceptions while the offense generated just 80 total yards.
Halftime Quarterback Change Sparks Michigan Comeback Against Penn State
Trailing in the matchup, Michigan benched Underwood at halftime and inserted true freshman backup Tommy Carr to rescue the offense. Carr delivered a sharp performance in the second half, completing 5-of-7 passes for 47 yards and adding 36 rushing yards. His performance featured a clutch 12-yard rushing touchdown that gave Michigan a 21-11 lead during a game that ended in a come-from-behind victory.
Michigan head coach Kyle Whittingham evaluated the freshman signal-caller’s performance in his postgame remarks to the media. “He responded very well,” Whittingham told reporters. “It wasn’t perfect. There’s some things he obviously needs to get better at. But he had some key runs for us. That option there for that final touchdown. That was a great run.” Whittingham noted that Carr took care of the football and committed zero turnovers during his half of action.
Tommy Carr Prepares for Potential Start Against No. 6 Indiana
Standing 6-foot-4 and weighing 195 pounds, Carr prepared himself for game action long before his number was called at halftime. “I was prepared for this since week one,” Carr told the media. “I prepared every day like I was the starter — got the call. There were a little bit of nerves, but I knew I was prepared and ready for this moment.” Whittingham praised the freshman’s daily preparation habits, mentioning that he frequently observed Carr studying film in the quarterback room throughout the week.
Tommy Carr to Bryce Underwood pic.twitter.com/B9EGwQODOr
While Whittingham declined to officially name Carr as the starting quarterback for the upcoming game against No. 6 Indiana, a failure to start the freshman would surprise observers following his impact in the Penn State win. If Carr retains the starting role, he faces a stiffer defensive test next Saturday when the Hoosiers visit Michigan for a Big Noon kickoff broadcast on Fox.
Frequently Asked Questions About Michigan Quarterback Tommy Carr
What were Tommy Carr’s exact statistics against Penn State?
During the second half of action, true freshman backup Tommy Carr completed 5-of-7 pass attempts for 47 yards. He also contributed 36 yards on the ground, which included a clutch 12-yard rushing touchdown that put Michigan ahead 21-11.
How did Kyle Whittingham describe Tommy Carr’s preparation?
Michigan head coach Kyle Whittingham stated that Carr is constantly prepared, noting that he observed the freshman in the quarterback room watching film nearly every second he did not have class.
Who does Michigan play next and when is the kickoff?
Michigan hosts No. 6 Indiana next Saturday for a game scheduled for a Big Noon kickoff broadcast on Fox.
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