Dave Portnoy sets the record straight about how the Michigan Wolverines really “bought” elite QB Bryce Underwood away from….
In typical Dave Portnoy fashion, the Barstool Sports founder didn’t hold back when addressing the growing buzz surrounding Michigan’s successful recruitment of Bryce Underwood, the nation’s top-ranked high school quarterback. Rumors had been swirling that Michigan “bought” Underwood’s commitment through aggressive use of NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deals—claims that Portnoy, a proud Michigan alum and vocal supporter, quickly dismissed as lazy and uninformed.
During a recent podcast segment and follow-up social media rant, Portnoy set the record straight. “Let’s get something clear,” he said. “Michigan didn’t ‘buy’ Bryce Underwood. We earned him. This isn’t some SEC pay-for-play scheme. This is about culture, winning, and development.”
Portnoy acknowledged that NIL money is part of the modern recruiting landscape, but he insisted that Underwood’s decision had more to do with Michigan’s sustained success and the program’s recent resurgence under head coach Sherrone Moore. “Michigan is coming off a national championship,” he reminded listeners. “They’re the gold standard right now. You think a five-star quarterback wants to go play for a team that’s rebuilding or in chaos? Hell no.”
The Barstool boss pointed out that Underwood, a native of Belleville, Michigan, had long been on the Wolverines’ radar. He emphasized the importance of keeping elite in-state talent at home and credited Michigan’s coaching staff with building a relationship of trust and vision with the young quarterback and his family. “Bryce Underwood knows he can win championships here, get developed, and go to the NFL. That’s not something you can just throw money at—it’s built over time.”
Critics of Michigan’s recruiting success have suggested that the Wolverines upped their NIL game dramatically to secure Underwood’s commitment, especially after losing top QBs in previous years to southern powerhouses. Portnoy didn’t deny that NIL played a role, but he rejected the idea that it was the deciding factor. “Every school offers NIL now. But Michigan didn’t promise him the world or give him some absurd upfront bag. What they did was show him a real path to greatness.”
Portnoy also took a shot at rival fanbases, particularly LSU and Alabama, who were considered finalists in Underwood’s recruitment. “They’re crying because they’re not used to losing battles to Michigan, especially for guys in our own backyard. But guess what? Times have changed. We’re not the little brother anymore. We’re the kings right now.”
In closing, Portnoy doubled down on his belief that Michigan is becoming the new destination for elite recruits. “When you win, when you develop talent, and when you do things the right way, the players will come. Bryce Underwood chose Michigan because it’s the best place for him to become a star. End of story.”
Whether you love or hate Dave Portnoy, one thing is certain—when it comes to defending his alma mater, he’s never afraid to speak his mind. And according to him, Michigan’s rise is just getting started.
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