Michigan’s offense has struggled throughout the season, and the issues are becoming increasingly evident with each game. The team has been disjointed offensively, now working with their second quarterback, and their passing game has lacked production. So far, only one player, tight end Colston Loveland, has recorded more than 50 receiving yards in any single game this year, a sign of how limited the aerial attack has been.
One area where Michigan hoped to find a spark is through the quarterback run game, particularly with Alex Orji, who has shown potential as a dual-threat quarterback. However, the offense has not fully integrated Orji’s running abilities, and it shows in their performance. This season, Orji has carried the ball 33 times for 113 yards, averaging just 3.5 yards per carry, which is a career low. In his two starts, he rushed 22 times for only 55 yards, a mere 2.5 yards per carry, further highlighting the offense’s inability to capitalize on his talents.
Michigan’s offensive coordinator, Kirk Campbell, addressed the challenges of incorporating Orji into the run game, calling it a “catch-22.” Campbell explained that heavily involving Orji in the run game might take the ball out of the hands of other key players like running back Kalel Mullings. Campbell suggested that even though Orji’s involvement may not always be apparent, the team has been using him to manipulate defenders and create opportunities for other players, especially Mullings. However, Campbell admitted that the execution has been inconsistent, noting that on third downs, attempts to use Orji in key situations failed to generate success.
Campbell’s explanation raises questions, as it seems Michigan could still make better use of both Orji and Mullings together. Given that the passing game has been ineffective, the reluctance to fully lean into the quarterback run game seems like a missed opportunity. Despite the struggles, Orji has had some notable moments, such as picking up crucial third downs with his legs in previous games. But poor execution, along with mistakes on both sides of the ball, has been a persistent issue for the Wolverines.
The inability to fully install the quarterback run game, particularly with a player like Orji who was expected to have a significant role, points to deeper concerns with the coaching staff. While the staff cannot physically make blocks or execute plays, the lack of a coherent game plan involving Orji is puzzling, especially since many assumed he would be a key part of the offense this season.
As Michigan prepares for its first road game against the Washington Huskies, the team will need to figure out how to better integrate Orji moving forward. The upcoming schedule only gets tougher, and if the Wolverines want to compete at a high level, they must find a way to maximize Orji’s abilities and fix the offensive disarray.
