By Mark Pszonak
It wasn’t a secret that Michigan had been aggressively pursuing five-star high school quarterback Bryce Underwood, who was committed to LSU. And that aggressiveness, and money, worked as last night he flipped to the Wolverines. The public reaction was quick and loud, especially from one known celebrity.
Dave Portnoy, a graduate of Michigan, is never bashful on social media. And his love of the Wolverines has been on full display, especially during their run to the National Championship last season.
Lately, he has taken a different approach, with Michigan struggling on the field. This first came to light in late September when Barstool Sports, a company Portnoy owns, posted this video:
Dave Portnoy will pay up to $3 Million in NIL to get Michigan a QB @stoolpresidente @Barstoolpickem pic.twitter.com/NtLIgVjlis
— Barstool Sports (@barstoolsports) September 26, 2024
A few years ago comments like this would have seemed crazy, but in 2024 nothing is surprising in the world of high school and transfer recruiting. While some thought Portnoy was kidding or exaggerating, last night his plans became a reality when Underwood flipped.
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And not surprisingly, Portnoy was very excited about the news:
Welcome to Michigan Bryce Underwood!!! And just like that we're back! #goblue pic.twitter.com/IGjgcdbDRL
— Dave Portnoy (@stoolpresidente) November 21, 2024
There are rumors that Portnoy contributed somewhere between 2-3 million to help get Underwood to Michigan. The exact details aren’t necessary, but it’s a fact that he was a big part of making all of this happen. And that makes this another example of how high-level college sports works nowadays.
The rich will continue to get richer, while many others will be left behind. And those that are worried about being left behind can only hope that they will find a Portnoy of their own.
