More Plays Coming For Backup Michigan Football Quarterback?

Despite all of the hype and versatility that backup Michigan football quarterback Alex Orji was said to have heading into the 2023 season, the Wolverines have not really used him all that often, even during garbage time. That said, against Ohio State, Orji finally got his chance to shine, and he used it to rip off a massive first down run — a play that transfer AJ Barner explained gave “spark” against the Buckeyes.

Backup Michigan football quarterback gave U-M a “spark” against Ohio State

Ever since Robert Griffen III made his iconic call during Michigan’s first game of the 2022 season, shouting, “There is an Orji in the end zone,” Michigan football fans have wanted to see more of the backup quarterback in-game. Orji is known around Ann Arbor for his impressive frame and athleticism, and while the coaching staff has not called his number all that much just yet, it’s clear that he is a weapon that the Wolverines want to hold onto.

AJ Barner says there are more plays on the back burner for Alex Orji

On Tuesday, Michigan football transfer AJ Barner explained the “spark” that Orji brings when he makes big plays, such as his impressive run against Ohio State during Michigan’s 30-24 victory last weekend.

“It provides a spark to the team,” AJ Barner said of Orji. “It’s good to see a guy go out there, especially a guy like (Alex Orji) who maybe hasn’t gotten as many opportunities. We’ve kind of had plays for him on the back burner, and him going out there and getting his opportunity was just extremely exciting to see.”

Barner says Michigan has had plays on the back burner for Alex Orji — it was good to see him rip off a run against Ohio State. pic.twitter.com/FVia6OBQsX

— CJ Mangum (@cjmangum_) November 29, 2023

Orji’s run against Ohio State

Below is a clip of Orji’s run, which gave Michigan football a crucial first down inside of Ohio State territory.

ORJI

Alex Orji breaks away for a big @UMichfootball gain 💪 pic.twitter.com/BoLcb4GaRX

— FOX College Football (@CFBONFOX) November 25, 2023

More looks in the post-season?

While we haven’t seen too much of the backup Michigan football quarterback just yet, it sounds like the Wolverines have some plays that they are holding onto right now which they could use against Iowa in the Big Ten title game or in the College Football Playoff next January.

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