Michigan State has secured its quarterback of the future in Aidan Chiles. To protect this key asset and secure the Spartans’ long-term success, they have prioritized building a strong offensive line around him.
Meanwhile, the Michigan Wolverines are looking ahead with Bryce Underwood, the No. 1 prospect in the 2025 class, as their future at quarterback. However, they face challenges in fortifying their offensive line. Reports indicate they missed out on offensive lineman Shiyazh Pete, who chose to commit to Vanderbilt. Pete, ranked as the No. 13 offensive tackle in the transfer portal by 247Sports, was a highly sought-after prospect by Michigan.
“Pete would have been a significant addition for Michigan, in every sense,” wrote Trent Knoop of *Michigan Wolverines On SI.* “At 6-foot-8 and 320 pounds, he fits the mold of linemen Michigan typically targets. A former first-team All-Conference USA honoree, Pete excelled as a left tackle for New Mexico State during the 2023 season, earning recognition for his performance. However, an ankle injury limited him to just six games in 2024. Over his three seasons with the Aggies, Pete logged more than 1,800 snaps at left tackle, allowing only five quarterback pressures — including two sacks and three hurries — on 193 pass-blocking plays in 2024.”
Despite Michigan’s robust NIL collective and a promising future with Underwood in Ann Arbor, their inability to secure a top-tier offensive lineman like Pete is surprising. Underwood’s talent has been a significant selling point in recruiting and transfer efforts, with comparisons to Vince Young and projections as a first-round NFL Draft pick before even playing a college game.
“Underwood is a potential franchise quarterback with an ideal combination of size, arm strength, and athleticism,” wrote Andrew Ivins of 247Sports. “Midway through his senior season, he’s shown exceptional command on the field, which aligns with his impressive resume: over 48 career starts and more than 165 touchdowns accounted for. His achievements are even more remarkable considering his young age — he won’t turn 20 until his third year of college. He’s projected to be a multi-year difference-maker for a College Football Playoff contender and has the tools to become a first-round NFL pick. While he may need time to adjust to college defenses, his playmaking ability and skill in distributing the ball on the move could make it difficult to keep him off the field early on.”
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