Because of the graduation of J. J. McCarthy, the Michigan Wolverines will have to decide who the new and rightful starting quarterback will be. It’s not an easy choice, but the competition has come down to two names: Alex Orji and Davis Warren. Offensive coordinator Sherrone Moore, who has been monitoring the players’ development, isn’t giving away any secrets yet.

As to who will be starting during Week 1, when asked by Brad Galli he did not say but added that this is still a work in progress, and they will decide soon enough. “Can’t tell you that right now, but we will figure that out soon.” Alex Orji is doing everything possible to make his presence felt. Orji, who is well known for his canon-like arm, has been making noise at the camp. Moore also explained that Orji has been performing well particularly in terms of the football’s handling and proper throwing.

“As a thrower Orji has been so good, and he is taking good care of the football”, Moore noted. It is that ability to make the right decisions and avoid those mistakes that will cost the team dearly, that makes Orji an obvious contender for the next starting quarterback position at Michigan. But it’s not just about the physical – it is also in Orji’s decision-making when he is on the field.

Davis Warren is not relenting and has been seen giving stiff competition in practice. Moore pointed out that the performances of practices have been in awe, especially the ones that resemble some of the plays made by J. J. McCarthy. Every practice he makes, it’s just a “wow play,” Moore shared. It is those highlights – moments that Warren is managing to produce – that are making this competition so entertaining.

Davis Warren: the comeback kid threatening Orji’s spot

Although Orji has been good in the camp, Davis Warren has been putting himself in the perfect position to take the starting position. Warren is a cancer survivor, and he’s played with a lot of tenacity and includes some elements of JJ McCarthy. Coach Sherrone Moore complimented Warren for “making wow plays.” Warren’s fight against cancer is another inspiring factor pegged in his struggle to fight for the starting QB position for Michigan.

In practice, it has been the accuracy and wise decision-making that has caught the eye, especially when Moore pointed out that Warren reminded him of some of McCarthy’s traits. “Some plays JJ would make, it’s just like, man that’s another replay, that’s another replay”, Moore said. Even though Orji seems to be a fairly talented youngster, Warren is much more mature and has some previous experiences which may help Michigan to establish a certain quarterbacking stability.

This fight between Orji and Warren isn’t just defined by their abilities and the best way to win this is to determine who is the best fit to lead the team. With Warren’s inspiring background and consistent performance, Orji’s path to starting might not be as clear-cut as it seemed. This is going to be an interesting storyline for the Wolverine fans this season.