Michigan makes quarterback change, to start Alex Orji vs. USC

No. 18 Michigan is making a change at quarterback ahead of its Big Ten opener, switching to junior Alex Orji for its game on Saturday against No. 11 USCcoach Sherrone Moore announced Monday.

Orji will replace senior Davis Warrena former walk-on, for one of the Wolverines’ biggest matchups of the season.

“Excited for him,” Moore said of Orji. “I know he’s chomping at the bit.”

Warren is averaging 148 yards per game and has thrown for only two touchdowns with six interceptions in three games this season, including a 31-10 loss at home to Texas. Warren’s QBR is 35.3, which ranks 103rd in the country.

Warren had three interceptions and only 122 passing yards in a 28-18 victory over Arkansas State last week.

“I wouldn’t call them an issue,” Moore said of the position. “We’re just going to go to work. So we’ll get better as we did in the running game last week. We’ll get better in the passing game and we’ll continue to strive forward.”

Orji, for his part, has seen only limited touches, throwing the ball six times and carrying it 10, albeit for an average of 5.8 yards per carry. His dual-threat potential could give the Wolverines a much-needed jolt after losing J.J. McCarthy (19 passing touchdowns, three rushing touchdowns in 2023) to the NFL.

“Would love to see him just take the reins and do what he’s been doing,” Moore said.

Orji did not have a single passing attempt last season, but he rushed 26 times for 155 yards. This year, Orji has the same number of passing touchdowns as Warren and no interceptions.