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OC Josh Gattis says it’s still ‘too early to tell’ who’s leading Michigan’s QB battle
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When it comes to Michigan’s quarterback situation, there is no leader in the clubhouse right now. Well, at least according to offensive coordinator Josh Gattis, who begins his third spring season in Ann Arbor.
Michigan, which has already started spring practice this year, is looking for its next quarterback for the 2021 season after watching Joe Milton transfer at the end of last season. The battle is likely between returner Cade McNamara — who came in late in the season — and 5-star newcomer J.J. McCarthy.
Yes, there’s a lot of interest in which quarterback is performing the best right now, but Gattis says it’s way too early to name a starter or pick a favorite to win the job.
“We’re only a handful of practices in,” Gattis said Wednesday, per MLive.com. “There’s too much time — too (early) to tell — but we’re pleased with the direction that those guys are showing in their leadership and performance on the field.”
McNamara is the only quarterback returning with any college experience. Last season, he completed 43-of-71 passes for 425 yards and 5 touchdowns without an interception. Most of that production came in Michigan’s overtime win over Rutgers.
As well as McNamara played at times during the 2020 season, there’s also a strong belief that McCarthy has the skills necessary to come in immediately and win the job. It probably won’t be until just before kickoff that we learn with QB is taking the first snap for the Wolverines this fall.
Regardless, Gattis says that everyone at the position is doing what is being asked during spring practice.
“The quarterbacks have done a really good job of doing what we’re asking them to do,” Gattis said. “First and foremost, take leadership and continue (that). They’ve done a really good job as a group pushing each other.”
Michigan finished the 2020 season with a 2-4 record.
Dustin grew up in the heart of Big Ten country and has been in sports media since 2010. He has been covering Big Ten football since 2014. You can follow him on Twitter: @SchutteCFB