Jim Harbaugh has made a call for Michigan’s starting quarterback in Week 3. After giving both players a shot as the starter in Weeks 1 and 2, Harbaugh announced JJ McCarthy will start Week 3 against UConn.

In Week 1, Cade McNamara received the start after serving in that role throughout 2021. McNamara struggled in the season opener, completing 50% of his passes against Colorado State.

By contrast, JJ McCarthy was dominant against Hawaii in Week 2. He completed 11-of-12 passes for 229 yards and 3 touchdowns before halftime. McCarthy added a 16-yard carry to his tally.

The call is not an easy one for any coach to make. After all, McNamara was a tough leader for the team in 2021 and produced a win over Ohio State, a B1G title and trip to the College Football Playoff.

On the other hand, it is not hard to see the upside for the Wolverines with McCarthy. The offense is more electric and explosive with his arm and speed under center.

As always with Harbaugh, there is no telling if McCarthy is the starter indefinitely or on a continued trial basis. But at least for now, he’s got the job for Week 3.