Dual-threat Alex Orji emerging as Michigan Wolverines' likely starter at quarterback for 2024

The Michigan Wolverines lost ten starters on offense from last season, including their starting quarterback J.J. McCarthy. The team has had a roller coaster offseason trying to replace him, bringing in transfer quarterback Jack Tuttle to compete with incumbents Alex Orji and Davis Warren.

However, as time gets closer to Michigan's season opener against the Fresno State Bulldogs, it seems more likely that junior Alex Orji will be named the starting quarterback for Michigan.

Orji, who placed 13th on Bruce Feldman's Freaks List , is a talented rusher but is unproven at best as a passer. His ability as a dual-threat quarterback opens up Michigan's offense to deploy unique rushes and rely on RPOs and option attacks with his elite mobility.

According to Matt Zenitz of 24/7 Sports , Orji started with the first-string offense in both Wolverine scrimmages. Zenitz also reported that Orji has taken a step forward as a passer and has impressed the coaching staff with his leadership. Specifically, Zenitz highlighted that Orji has grown in his pocket presence and ability to quickly scan through reads.

Tuttle, whose experience gives a veteran edge to Michigan's quarterback room, has battled injuries this offseason. He missed spring with a shoulder injury that he played through last season and, according to On3 Sports, was limited throughout the summer. He had a good shot to win the starting job, but there's obvious concern about the 25-year-old's durability.

Warren was described by defensive back Quinten Johnson as " the best pure passer " of the group throughout camp. While he's not near the threat of a rusher as Orji is, the senior quarterback's ability as a passer might provide a more stable approach to Michigan's offense, similar to how the team relied on McCarthy last season.

The team may deploy all three quarterbacks throughout the season to find the best fit, and I'd expect to see all of them throughout their opener against Fresno State.

However, it does sound like Orji will, at least, open the season as the Wolverines' starting quarterback. If he has settled down as a passer, Michigan's offense can make some noise despite their significant turnover from last year.

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