3 things we want to see from Michigan football vs. USC
By Nick Popio
2. For Alex Orji to move the offense through the air
USC's pass defense is giving up an average of 205 yards a game. Garrett Nussmeier of LSU eclipsed the 300-yard mark. Then the Trojans shut out Utah State in Week 2. Rushing-wise, neither LSU or Utah State had a runner go over the century mark. Add in the fact that Alex Orji is making his first career start and that spells trouble for the Michigan football.
Kirk Campbell will certainly run patterns that will keep Orji in his comfort zone. This is where having Colston Loveland to be his safety net would be critical.
Balance on offense will win this game and Michigan just doesn't have that right now. Perhaps Orji will answer the prayers of Michigan football fans and be the missing piece to the offense.
Alex Orji and Jalen Milroe:
— Marty McRide (@MartyMcRide) September 16, 2024
Both lose to Texas early in the season at home.
Both have question marks around their role as QB1.
Both are freakishly athletic.
Both end up being QB1.
This season is not over. pic.twitter.com/bmLApcBMDH
Staying away from third and longs will also be key. Davis Warren may have to come to the rescue if Orji is struggling in these situations. D'Anton Lynn should bring pressure on practically every down and see if Michigan's line can stop it.
There's a lot of questions that should be answered this weekend. How short will the leash be for Orji? Is Jack Tuttle healthy enough to play? What if Warren throws another pick? Who will Michigan's best quarterback option be on Saturday?