After providing Michigan fans with a long awaited glimpse of excellent and consistent quarterback play in 2022, J.J. McCarthy returned as the unquestioned leader of the offense. Coming off a solid 2,719-yard, 22-touchdown season, expectations were high for Michigan’s junior quarterback, and he certainly delivered.
Hype and high expectations are nothing new for McCarthy, though. Ever since he committed to the Wolverines in May 2019, his five-star status had fans clamoring for him to get to campus as soon as possible. This continued through his freshman season, where he served mostly as the understudy to Cade McNamara. When finally given the starting gig as a sophomore, McCarthy’s talent gave fans what they had expected.
Let’s hit fast forward and move to the start of the 2023 campaign. With a bitter taste in their mouths after an early exit in the College Football Playoff a season ago, the Wolverines returned plenty of talent, particularly on offense. This created even more hype that Michigan could have one of the nation’s best offenses. Add in some talk about wanting to balance things out by throwing the ball more, and you’ve got the recipe for something special.
Things got rolling for McCarthy right away in the season opener against East Carolina. He showcased his arm talent and mobility en route to 280 yards and three touchdowns. He followed it up with another solid outing against UNLV, earning him the status as one of the nation’s most efficient passers.
