Dual-threat Alex Orji emerging as Michigan Wolverines’ likely starter at quarterback for 2024 season
Ten offensive starters from the previous campaign, including starting quarterback J.J. McCarthy, were lost by the Michigan Wolverines. The team’s attempt to replace him has been a roller coaster this offseason, with transfer quarterback Jack Tuttle entering the competition against stalwarts Alex Orji and Davis Warren.
But as the season approaches and Michigan prepares to play the Fresno State Bulldogs, it becomes more probable that junior Alex Orji will start as quarterback for the Wolverines.
Orji is a gifted rusher, but his passing ability is still a work in progress. He ranked 13th on Bruce Feldman’s Freaks List. His exceptional mobility as a dual-threat quarterback allows Michigan’s offense to use unconventional rushes and rely more on RPOs and option plays.
Orji has reportedly made improvements to his passing over the previous season, according to sources from the camp.Tuttle has struggled with injuries this offseason, but his experience gives Michigan’s quarterback room an experienced advantage. He played through a shoulder injury in the previous season, which kept him out of action in the spring. On3 Sports reports that he was limited all summer long. Although there is clearly worry about the 25-year-old’s endurance, he had a strong chance to secure the starting position.
Quinten Johnson, a defensive back, called Warren “the best pure passer” among the group throughout the camp. Although Orji poses a greater threat as a rusher, the senior quarterback’s passing ability might offer Michigan’s offensive a more reliable strategy, much as how the team used McCarthy the previous campaign.
To determine which quarterback best suits the club, the three might be used throughout the season; I would anticipate seeing all three of them in their opening game against Fresno State.
Orji, though, seems certain to start the season as the Wolverines’ starting quarterback. Despite their huge turnover from the previous season, Michigan’s offense can still cause some noise if he has calmed down as a passer.