3 reasons why Michigan Football won't repeat as Big Ten champions

2. No J.J. McCarthy

If Michigan football had a more experienced quarterback at the helm then this wouldn't be such an issue. Alex Orji didn't calm the nerves of the stressed-out masses, who were waiting eagerly to see what he's made of, with his performance in the spring game either. His legs are not the concern. His accuracy is not in the ballpark of where McCarthy was at least for now, but the coaches did not search for a better option in the transfer portal so they must know something that the casual fan does not.

Just looking at the other quarterbacks in the Big Ten compared to Orji is worrisome. Oregon's Dillon Gabriel is a Heisman contender with his heir apparent Dante Moore the next in line for superstardom. If Will Howard at Ohio State can't cut it, then a five star is waiting in his wings. Aidan Chiles, Will Rogers and Drew Allar are all more promising than Orji even before the season starts. I didn't mention USC's Miller Moss working with quarterback whisperer Lincoln Riley either.

Jadyn Davis might best all of them someday, but that won't happen in 2024. Orji will have to win games with his arm and that seems improbable as we sit here today.