Michigan football: Is J.J. McCarthy ready to start for the Wolverines?

JJ McCarthy’s role with the Wolverines

Despite 2021 being McCarthy’s first season with Michigan, the young quarterback still saw significant playing time.

Already a fan favorite, McCarthy was met with a roar of applause and praise every time he entered the game at Michigan Stadium. As a dual-threat quarterback, McCarthy helped make Michigan’s 2021 offense even more versatile and propelled the team forward in that aspect.

McCarthy’s arm talent has been there from day one as well. Even as early ad the Wolverines’ week one matchup against Western Michigan, McCarthy threw a bomb to former Michigan receiver Daylen Baldwin for a game-sealing touchdown in Michigan’s 47-14 opening day win.

Throughout the season, it became more and more apparent that McCarthy was a talent that Michigan had rarely seen before and could be the next legendary player to wear the winged helmet.

The debate for the Wolverines’ starting quarterback role has never been one of “if” but more of “when.” It is clear that McCarthy is more mobile in the pocket, faster, and has a much better arm than Cade McNamara. Yet, McNamara still totes much more experience than McCarthy does heading into the 2022 season.

Both quarterbacks will likely remain on the roster and see playing time in 2022, yet if Michigan wants to compete for championships in the Big Ten and nationally, McCarthy is the only quarterback with the talent level to do so without enormous amounts of help.

As we head into spring ball and fall camp, expect a heated quarterback battle between McCarthy and McNamara, but don’t be surprised if Harbaugh’s young coaching staff rolls with talent over experience in 2022.

One important factor to keep an eye on this off-season is McCarthy’s shoulder injury that will take him out of commission until fall camp. Even if he does not start week one, he could see a return to action sometime in the middle of the 2022 season.