Though Underwood’s team, the Belleville Tigers, fell short in their playoff matchup against Novi Detroit Catholic Central, the drama surrounding his recruitment only grew more intense after his performance and behavior during the game. Despite the loss, Underwood made a clear statement about his college future, one that may have come in part as a response to the growing pressure from Michigan, which has been making a strong push to convince him to stay close to home. 

For months, Underwood has been committed to LSU, having made a verbal pledge to the Tigers back in January. However, Michigan, the in-state powerhouse, has not given up on the hope of flipping the recruit, and they are reportedly offering him a massive NIL deal worth $10 million—an unprecedented sum that could rival any offer in college football. The Champions Circle collective, which manages Michigan’s NIL efforts, is putting everything on the line to bring Underwood back to Michigan, where he would play just a short drive away from his hometown of Belleville.

Michigan’s offer of a $2.5 million per year deal over four years is part of a broader NIL strategy to lock down top recruits. For Underwood, the financial incentives are significant, especially considering the growing influence of NIL deals in shaping college decisions. But despite these offers, there are signals that Underwood remains committed to LSU, where he initially committed to play after being impressed by the Tigers’ program, coaching staff, and potential for development. His confidence in LSU’s football culture and his bond with the coaching staff, particularly offensive coordinator Mike Denbrock, seem to outweigh the allure of staying home.

In an interesting twist, Underwood’s playoff run was also marked by the involvement of former Michigan staffer Connor Stalions, who infamously became embroiled in Michigan’s sign-stealing scandal earlier in the season. Stalions, who was involved with Underwood’s coaching staff at Belleville during the playoffs, may have had some behind-the-scenes influence, though the connection has sparked a wave of intrigue. Despite Stalions’ influence, Belleville’s playoff loss to Novi Detroit Catholic Central ended their season on a sour note, as Underwood faced relentless pressure from the opposing defense. The 35-21 defeat may have done little to change Underwood’s recruitment trajectory, however, with LSU still the front-runner.

Underwood’s eventual decision will be one of the most high-stakes recruitments in recent memory. His combination of on-field success, potential financial windfall, and a decision that could alter the balance of power in college football recruiting make his commitment one to watch. Regardless of where he lands, it’s clear that Underwood is ready to make an impact at the next level, whether it’s in Baton Rouge or Ann Arbor. As National Signing Day approaches, the clock is ticking on what could be the final chapter in the saga of his high school career and the beginning of a new era in college football.