Michigan Football Officially Makes Change at Quarterback: Will It Work?

It’s official – Michigan football will have a new starting quarterback against No. 11 USC in Week 4.

In his weekly press conference, head coach Sherrone Moore announced that junior Alex Orji will be the team’s new QB1, replacing redshirt junior Davis Warren after three games.

Why Michigan Football Is Making A Change at Quarterback

In his three starts for U-M, Warren finished a combined 48 for 72 (66%) with 444 passing yards and two touchdowns. Viewed as the safer option during the offseason position battle, the junior’s six interceptions ultimately forced the hand of the coaches to make a switch.

After all, a 2-1 start to the season and a No. 18 ranking in the 12-team playoff format era means the season is far from over for the defending champs. Still, after three weeks of disappointment on offense, any hope for a repeat has disappeared from the fan base’s expectations.

Now, Orji steps in and promises to be a polar opposite experience to Warren. Good or bad? That remains to be seen but the offense will look entirely different, relying on their signal-caller to be a run threat more than a pocket passer.

What to Expect from Alex Orji

Having only attempted seven passes in his career – including this one – there’s no telling how this will go. Then again, passes like the one below make you wonder if a spread option scheme could open up the top of the defense and put defenders on skates trying to defend.

Alex Orji’s first series resulted in a 9-play drive that ended in a touchdown. Orji and Mullings combined for 71 yards on the ground, which opened up an easy 9-yard TD pass to Hogan Hansen.

On his third series of the game, that dual-threat ability (combined with a great route… pic.twitter.com/OxEjjuPBIG

— The Winged Helmet (@TWH_Chris) September 15, 2024

Ultimately, the quarterback has to make that throw. And, no, Orji hasn’t proven himself as a passer in his limited opportunities. His lack of usage as a passer suggests the worst is yet to come.

What’s important is, after three games in his first season, Moore is quickly looking in the mirror. It’s different than what clearly isn’t working, and it’s a sign the staff isn’t too stubborn to change or “stick with their guy,” as we’ve seen at other programs around the country.

Why Urban Meyer Loves the Potential of A Spread Option at Michigan

The only way to succeed with Orji is on the ground first and the air second. Moore has always loved running the ball smashing, but this scheme could/should look different than anything we saw with J.J. McCarthy & Warren under center.

Former Ohio State head coach and current FOX analyst Urban Meyer broke down exactly how Michigan should use Orji. Love him or hate him, his offensive acumen is hard to disagree with.

Urban Meyer comparing Michigan’s two different Offensive Styles: Pro & Spread Option. pic.twitter.com/ic2IrsjEBT

— Jake Franklin Football (@JakeFranklinFB) September 5, 2024

While Meyer suggests a two-QB system, he is far more excited about the potential Michigan has in a spread option that relies on possession and a strong defense – sound familiar?

Can Orji make a difference? We won’t have to wait to find out as he’ll get his first start in a winged helmet against No. 10 USC at home on national TV.

You can’t draw it up any better than that.