JJ McCarthy’s first conference start as the Michigan quarterback was a success but it wasn’t easy. Maryland gave the Wolverines all they could handle in their 34-27 victory Saturday.

McCarthy was impressive going 18-for-26 for 220 yards and 2 touchdowns. Michigan QB coach and co-offensive coordinator Matt Weiss, shares his thoughts on his quarterback’s play (Via 247 Sports).

“I think you said it: It’s his first real appearance, it’s the first time he’s ever played a full football game. So I think for the first time playing a full football game, there’s a lot of positives to take away from it. I think he did a good job. Certainly, look at the stat line. It’s really good for a guy playing his first football game. At the same time, I’m sure, JJ would tell you, there’s lots stuff that we can clean up. And we’re focused on the process.”

“We love everything about JJ and the way he goes about it. There’s so many things that we can fix and work on. We come away from it, even when he did make mistakes, we’re encouraged because you can see it’s all fixable stuff. It really just comes down to coaching, more than anything else. If he’s making mistakes, we’re not doing the right thing, and that’s on us as coaches. So we’re really encouraged by his first full game. We were happy with it.”

McCarthy’s play should give the Wolverines confidence in his ability going forward.