As the 2024 season unfolds, the Michigan Wolverines find themselves at a pivotal crossroads. Under new head coach Sherrone Moore, who took over from Jim Harbaugh after last season’s National Championship victory, the Wolverines have experienced a mix of highs and lows. Starting the season with a 2-1 record, Michigan suffered a notable setback with a loss to third-ranked Texas, which has amplified the pressure on Sherrone Moore.

Joel Klatt highlighted the gravity of the situation on his YouTube channel, The Joel Klatt Show: A College Football Podcast, stating, “Michigan’s back is against the wall. A loss would be devastating for Michigan. Everyone would pile on the Wolverines, and it could drop them several spots in the Big Ten hierarchy.” Klatt’s analysis underscores the critical nature of this game for Michigan, as they need to prove their mettle and turn their season around.

The stakes are now particularly high as Michigan prepares to face the 12th-ranked USC Trojans. The game against USC is not just another matchup but a critical test for Michigan’s season. With Sherrone Moore making headlines for his controversial decision to switch from Davis Warren to Alex Orji as the starting quarterback, the intensity of this game is magnified.

Warren’s disappointing performance, including six interceptions in 11 quarters and a mid-game benching against Arkansas State, led to Alex Orji’s promotion. Despite Orji’s limited passing stats—completing only four of seven passes for 15 yards—he has demonstrated his value with 31 rushing attempts for 181 yards and three touchdowns.

The new era with Alex Orji: will he lead Michigan to victory?

Sherrone Moore’s decision to start Orji, despite the quarterback’s mixed performance, reflects his determination to shake things up and adapt. “For us, the players to see me announce it to everybody else, (and) understand the confidence I have in Alex,” Moore said, emphasizing his faith in Orji as a key to revitalizing the offense.

With USC flying high and poised to challenge Michigan, the introduction of Orji as the starter comes at a crucial moment. It’s a high-stakes situation where Michigan’s performance against USC will be a significant factor in shaping the remainder of their season.

With all eyes on this critical matchup, Michigan must harness Orji’s athleticism and potential to mount a successful challenge against a formidable USC team. The outcome of this game could determine the trajectory of their season and whether they can reclaim their spot as a dominant force in college football.

That’s all about Alex and his team. Thank you for completing this article. Here’s a gift for you. An ES Think Tank Exclusive with Doug Sanders.