It's only May, but the Bryce Underwood hype is immense as fans eagerly anticipate whether the true freshman quarterback will start for the Michigan Wolverines this fall.

Coach Sherrone Moore has been adamant that he isn't ready to decide who his starter will be, despite Underwood's early signs of leadership growth in spring practice.

In spite of that, On3's post-spring rankings tell a different story. The Wolverines are the real deal, and to elevate their status into becoming an elite program like they were under Moore's predecessor, Jim Harbaugh, it's in their best interest to start the true freshman five-star sensation.

The Wolverines rank No. 18 in this projection, although it won't matter once August gets underway.

"There is no nice way to say it. Michigan’s offense was downright terrible a year ago," Ari Wasserman wrote. "And even so, the Wolverines were competitive in every game and even beat Ohio State before the Buckeyes rolled to the national championship. Michigan also signed five-star quarterback Bryce Underwood, who I believe will wind up starting this season. If Michigan can have a halfway decent offense this year, the Wolverines should be a tough out every week in the Big Ten."

Although Moore's suspension will keep him from gracing the sidelines early in the season, the Wolverines get the benefit of playing a relatively favorable schedule leading up to a Week 14 clash with Ohio State in November.

📲 Follow The Sporting News on WhatsApp 

The Wolverines have beaten the Buckeyes four years in a row and will have a chance to make it five if they can protect their home-field advantage. Barring how the Buckeyes' season plays out, "The Game" could see both teams playing for a regular-season title, a chance to remain unbeaten, or a playoff berth altogether.

Regardless of what happens, "Big Noon Kickoff" will be there to watch it unfold, as it was announced Monday Fox would broadcast the game.

Eventually, a final answer will be revealed about Underwood's status. At least for the time being, however, Michigan fans should feel optimistic that their team's investment will pay off.

Now, it's up to Underwood to win the job.