Michigan football: Blake Corum breaks down why JJ McCarthy is so special for the Wolverines

Over the past few seasons, the Michigan football program has undergone some massive changes, many of which revolve around the team’s culture. For the Wolverines, this culture shift has largely centered on former five-star quarterback commit JJ McCarthy, who arrived in Ann Arbor in 2021, assumed a significant role as a freshman, and eventually became Michigan’s QB1 last fall. Recently, Blake Corum had the opportunity to discuss what makes his quarterback so exceptional.

Blake Corum explains why JJ McCarthy makes Michigan football so special

During Week 2 of the 2022 season, JJ McCarthy assumed the role of the Wolverines’ starting quarterback following an impressive debut against Hawaii. From that point onwards, it became evident that Michigan football had something extraordinary with McCarthy. He led the team to 12 consecutive victories, including significant wins over Penn State (41-17), Michigan State (29-7), Ohio State (45-23), and Purdue in the Big Ten title game (43-22).

Recently, Blake Corum, a prominent player in Michigan football, delved into why JJ McCarthy has been such a standout for the team since his arrival on the Ann Arbor campus.

“J.J. is a guy who takes advantage of every opportunity he has,” Corum said this spring, according to On3. “He comes in and is the same guy every day — a guy that’s willing to put in the work and be the leader a quarterback is supposed to be.”

McCarthy’s work ethic, much like that of several other outstanding players for the Maize and Blue, is unparalleled. This has become evident over the past few seasons.

“We see a guy that works not only in the facility but outside the facility. He’s a great leader in the facility and a great leader in life. Just having a good dude and great quarterback really helps the team.”

A culture shift for the Michigan Wolverines

Between 2020 and 2021, there was a significant transformation for Michigan football, and the culture shift in Ann Arbor has been largely credited for the team’s ability to go from a 2-4 record during the COVID-19 season to winning back-to-back Big Ten titles.

While JJ McCarthy has undoubtedly played a crucial role in Michigan’s success, it is important to note that football is a team sport, and the collective efforts of the entire team contribute to a team’s success. While McCarthy’s contributions as a talented quarterback have made a large impact, his leadership and ability to “rally the troops” has been just as important.

“The culture, that was the main thing,” Corum said. “That’s what we were missing. We had the athletes. Just some of the small things we didn’t have. We built it to point where people know how to work. We have high expectations here now, and guys know if there is any BS, we’re going to call you out. The culture is stronger than ever.”

This fall, keep an eye out for Blake Corum and JJ McCarthy as they aim to guide Michigan football towards a third consecutive Big Ten title. There is excitement and anticipation surrounding the team, with hopes of potentially contending for the program’s first national title since 1997. It will be an exciting season as these talented players and the entire team strive to achieve their goals and make a mark in college football.

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