Michigan, despite an unblemished 13-0 record and a top spot heading into the College Football Playoff Rose Bowl matchup against Alabama, has faced challenges following the public revelation of an NCAA investigation into alleged sign-stealing. According to insights from 10 anonymous Big Ten coaches, scouts, and analysts, the Wolverines haven’t been the same team since the investigation became public, including their star quarterback, J.J. McCarthy.

McCarthy, the highly touted quarterback for the Michigan Wolverines football team, entered the program as a five-star recruit and was ranked as the No. 2 pro-style quarterback in the 2021 class by 247Sports. Considered a potential savior for the team, McCarthy’s arrival sparked both excitement and skepticism, with some analysts questioning his readiness and ability to meet the high expectations set for him.

J.J. McCarthy falls short of expectations 

Several coaches have speculated on the factors contributing to J.J. McCarthy’s decline in form, considering the NCAA investigation, injuries, and Michigan’s challenging schedule as contributing factors. McCarthy’s stats dipped in the latter part of the season, raising questions about his performance. Some coaches suggest a potential impact from sign-stealing controversies, while others point to a backloaded schedule facing tough defenses. “I don’t know what’s causing him to be hesitant and not as decisive as he was earlier,” joined a Big Ten head coach who previously played Michigan, adding, “He seems out of sync lately.”

There’s a consensus that McCarthy’s hesitancy and lack of decisiveness may be linked to an undisclosed leg injury. Despite impressive past performances, coaches emphasize that McCarthy needs to play exceptionally well for Michigan to have a chance against Alabama, highlighting the importance of his mobility and unscripted plays. However, the quarterback seems to be focusing primarily on the upcoming match, keeping all NFL Draft thoughts at bay. 

McCarthy prioritizes College Football Playoff

Michigan quarterback J.J. McCarthy remains focused on the College Football Playoff and is steering clear of discussions about the NFL Draft and his future at Michigan. Despite potential impacts on his NFL plans, McCarthy maintains the same mentality he had since week one, prioritizing the goal of contributing to bringing a national title back to the Michigan football program. 

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When addressing the upcoming challenge against Alabama, McCarthy acknowledged their super-fundamental soundness, athleticism, and toughness, expressing excitement about the matchup. He also appreciated Alabama’s coaching staff, noting, “[Alabama is] super fundamentally sound; Coach Saban and Coach Steele do a great job of getting them in the right spots at the right time.” Nick Saban, the experienced head coach of the Alabama Crimson Tide, is preparing his team for the Rose Bowl against the No. 1 Michigan Wolverines in the College Football Playoff semifinals. 

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