Alex Orji will once again be Michigan’s starting quarterback this weekend. Last week, Michigan made a significant quarterback change by starting Orji against #11 USC, and the Wolverines secured a big victory. Orji only passed for 32 yards, but the team’s game plan was focused heavily on running the football, which proved effective. Head coach Sherrone Moore confirmed on Monday that Orji will remain the starter.
Previously, Davis Warren was Michigan’s starting quarterback, known for his superior passing ability. However, Warren’s turnover issues led to his benching. Orji, on the other hand, protected the football and brought an additional threat with his running ability, adding another dynamic to Michigan’s offense. Moore expressed satisfaction with Orji’s performance, emphasizing his ball security and hard running. “Alex [Orji] will be the starter again,” Moore said, according to On3. “There’s definitely more to his game and more things we’ve incorporated for him and the offense. But he did a great job of taking care of the football, which was our top priority. He was a great teammate and ran hard when needed, so I’m proud of him and his performance.”
The Wolverines have always leaned on their running game, and last Saturday was no different, especially in the first half. Moore acknowledged that the success of the running game is key to the team’s strategy, though he also expressed a desire for offensive balance. He praised Orji for handling the pressures of starting in such a big game and indicated that the offense will continue to build around him. “It was great for him to get that first start in a high-stakes game with a fantastic atmosphere,” Moore added. “We can definitely add more to complement the running game, which was effective, but we aim for balance. We’ve had similar games in the past where we needed to win that way, and as long as we win, that’s what matters.”
While Orji played a crucial role, the standout performer in the win over USC was running back Kalel Mullings. Mullings rushed 17 times for 159 yards and two touchdowns, leading the Wolverines to victory. His dominant performance raises the possibility that Mullings could become Michigan’s starting running back going forward. He has been sharing carries with Donovan Edwards, who has also played well recently, but Mullings has been the more effective rusher. When asked if Mullings could take over as the primary back, Moore acknowledged that he has earned the right to be in that conversation. “Yeah, we’ll see,” Moore said, according to 247 Sports. “I think he’s earned the right to be part of that discussion. Kalel played a great game, and his impact was undeniable, so we’ll have those conversations with both players.”
Michigan aims to carry this momentum into their upcoming game against Minnesota, which kicks off at noon ET on Saturday at Michigan Stadium. The Wolverines are currently nine-point favorites.
