Who's Next Up in Ann Arbor? The State of Michigan's Quarterback Battle

By Beck Silver

It’s no secret that the Michigan Wolverines prefer a run-heavy offense. This offensive scheme is expected to continue under new head coach Sherrone Moore . However, just because they dominate the run game doesn’t mean the Wolverines won’t need a stellar quarterback to stay competitive and continue last year’s success. Michigan looks to replace JJ McCarthy, their two-year starter who was drafted to the Minnesota Vikings this spring. The options for McCarthy’s replacement include Alex Orji , Jack Tuttle , Davis Warren , Jayden Denegal , and Jadyn Davis , all of whom come with unique contributions and drawbacks.

Alex Orji

Alex Orji is currently the fan favorite for starting this season. He appeared in six games last season including the Rose Bowl against Alabama and the National Championship against the Washington Huskies. Orji is a junior with a solid build at 6′3″ and 236 lbs which makes him a strong runner, although he has yet to prove his ability to pass accuracy in game.

Orji was one of two starters in the spring game alongside Davis Warren. While he seemed a little uncomfortable the first few drives, he quickly found his footing and began to look the part. Michigan’s offense favors a quarterback who knows how to scramble and isn’t afraid to take a hit to get the first down. It doesn’t require a quarterback who will always be making explosive plays, although when it was needed of him, McCarthy was able to do so. Orji’s running ability and cohesiveness within Michigan’s offensive scheme makes him a favorite for the position.

Jack Tuttle

Jack Tuttle is an interesting story. Tuttle is a seventh year in his second season with the Wolverines. His five starts all come from his time at Indiana prior to transferring to Michigan. Tuttle made several appearances last season, going 15 for 17 and 130 yards during garbage time.

While Tuttle is a strong contender for the position, he was unable to participate in the spring game due to injuries - something he has continuously battled throughout his collegiate career. Tuttle is the oldest of the quarterbacks and carries a veteran understanding of the game. He makes up a 6’4” frame and weighs in at 210 lbs, a great size for the quarterback position. Tuttle does not have the legs that Orji has, but he comes with the most quarterback experience. His injuries will make him a riskier choice for the Wolverines, and that may cost him the opportunity to be QB1.

Davis Warren

Davis Warren carries a smaller frame, coming in at 6’2” and 195 lbs. Warren is entering his senior year and has no career starts. He briefly appeared against East Carolina, UNLV, and Nebraska last season, but he only attempted five total passes in those games. Warren was one of the starters during this year's spring game, however, it’s assumed that had Tuttle been injury-free he would have taken Warren’s position.

Warren doesn’t seem to have the same upside as Orji with his running ability or Tuttle with his experience. That being said, he may take garbage time snaps again this season or be the backup quarterback to Orji or Tuttle, especially if Tuttle’s injuries make him a wildcard.

Jayden Denegal

Jayden Denegal is a junior who comes in at 6’5” and 235 lbs. He has a solid build but likely won’t be the starter this season. Denegal went four for five passing attempts last year and made an appearance in six games. Denegal did not start in the spring game, but he may continue to see backup minutes and develop throughout this season.

Jadyn Davis

Jadyn Davis is a true freshman coming in at 6’1” 203 lbs. Davis will likely redshirt his first year and pick up some garbage time in four games. Davis was a five-star recruit in high school, however, he may be undersized and in need of development. He will likely make a few appearances throughout the season to prepare him for his career at the University of Michigan and acclimate him to the next level of football.

The starting quarterback position for the Michigan Wolverines remains to be determined and likely won’t be filled until their week 1 game against Fresno State. At this point, Orji looks to be leading the pack, potentially backed up by Jack Tuttle. The Wolverines have a challenging schedule this season , so they won’t be able to extend the quarterback battle into the season like was seen in the 2022 battle between Cade McNamara and JJ McCarthy. The Wolverines are expected to continue their run-focused offense this year, so they may be able to get by with a game manager, rather than explosive play quarterback.