As the Alabama Football team gears up for a pivotal showdown in the Rose Bowl with a shot at the National Championship on the line, they’re simultaneously engaged in a recruiting battle with the Michigan Wolverines. The coveted prize in this battle is none other than Bryce Underwood, the top prospect in the 2025 recruiting class and a Michigan native. Underwood recently made a visit to Tuscaloosa just ahead of his planned commitment date on January 6th.
While securing Underwood’s commitment wouldn’t mark the end of the recruitment journey, it would undoubtedly be a significant win for Alabama Football. Despite losing out on Ryan Williams to the class of 2024 and Antonio Coleman, who recently flipped to Auburn, the program is off to a strong start for the 2025 class with seven firm commitments.
This budding rivalry between Alabama and Michigan extends beyond the gridiron and onto the recruiting trail. While it’s uncertain whether Underwood will ultimately choose the Crimson Tide, the commitment of Julian Sayin, another highly-rated quarterback, may present a two-year roadblock for Underwood. In the era of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL), this factor could influence his decision, as prospects often seek opportunities with less competition in their position.
If Alabama Football manages to secure Underwood’s commitment early in the process, it would significantly boost their recruiting efforts. Many of the nation’s top playmakers could be drawn to Alabama, eager to align themselves with one of the most highly regarded quarterback recruits. Additionally, Underwood’s choice could inspire other Michigan-based recruits, who have crossed paths with him on the field, to consider a future in the South.
In the world of College Football, there’s no true offseason. The Alabama football coaching staff is constantly juggling various responsibilities, from preparing for college football playoff games to recruiting players for 2024 and 2025, actively engaging the transfer portal, and retaining their existing players amid the evolving landscape of NIL and immediate transfer rules. This relentless pace has made coaching college football a year-round endeavor, unlike any other sport.