GBMWolverine
Fansided

3 keys for Michigan football vs. Ohio State

By Chris Peterson

Michigan quarterback J.J. McCarthy (9) celebrates a touchdown against Indiana with running back Blake Corum (2) during the first half at Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor on Saturday, Oct. 14, 2023.
Michigan quarterback J.J. McCarthy (9) celebrates a touchdown against Indiana with running back Blake Corum (2) during the first half at Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor on Saturday, Oct. 14, 2023. /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
2 of 3
Next
Nov 18, 2023; College Park, Maryland, USA; quarterback J.J. McCarthy (9) attempts a pass against the Maryland Terrapins during the first half at SECU Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 18, 2023; College Park, Maryland, USA; quarterback J.J. McCarthy (9) attempts a pass against the Maryland Terrapins during the first half at SECU Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports /

J.J. McCarthy needs to be exceptional

McCarthy accounted for four touchdowns last season against Ohio State and had three touchdown passes of more than 45 yards.

I don’t know if McCarthy is going to have that kind of performance again, but he needs to take care of the ball. However, he has to be more than a game manager. Michigan football needs to utilize McCarthy as a runner.

The dynamic athlete and former five-star quarterback hasn’t been used much as a runner this season and Michigan hasn’t needed it. But it’s all hands on deck on Saturday. You have to empty the playbook.

But McCarthy against Kyle McCord is one of the biggest advantages Michigan football has in this game. He needs to deliver on that if the Wolverines are going to win.

Home/Michigan Football