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The LSU Tigers lost prized recruit Bryce Underwood on Thursday night as the nation’s top signal caller flipped to Michigan. Social media activity following that deception made his actions feel extremely calculated.
How long has Underwood known about his stance on the Wolverines? How long has he been stringing Brian Kelly and the Tigers along in the recruiting process?
Underwood committed to play at LSU back in January of this year. For nearly 11 months, that pledge remained firm despite attempts from other suitors to lure him away.
The Tigers’ top competition in the recruitment has always been Michigan. The quarterback lives in the Wolverine State. He plays his high school ball in Belleville, just down the road from Ann Arbor. UM was always going to be in the race. Underwood knew it. Everyone knew it.
But just how long has the passer been leaning towards making the flip? Just last week rumors surfaced of a reported $10 million NIL offer from the Wolverines as they continued their pursuit. Bryce Underwood went out of his way to taunt his hometown team – on numerous occasions!
Days later, he broke the Tigers’ hearts with the flip to Michigan. It felt calculated. He seemed to know his intentions even while reaffirming that commitment to LSU. His social media activity only echoed that sentiment!
Instagram: @19bryce._
That photo was posted to his Instagram story shortly after news of his flip went public. He later posted a video of childhood highlights to his X timeline. Michigan seems to have always been the favorite.
— Bryce Jay Underwood (@BryceUnderwoo16) November 22, 2024
Reports put a price tag on what it took to get Bryce Underwood in the Wolverines’ class. That number neared $12 million, partly funded by Barstool Sports’ Dave Portnoy.
What his motivation in potentially stringing the Tigers along is unknown. Was he trolling LSU or simply building drama for the surprise decision? Either way, he seems to have known where he wanted to go all along!