No. 18 Michigan makes change, names Alex Orji QB1

Field Level Media|published: 09/16/2024, 12:57pm EDT

Sep 14, 2024; Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA; Michigan Wolverines quarterback Alex Orji (10) throws against the Arkansas State Red Wolves during the second half at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images

No. 18 Michigan is going with a new starting quarterback when it opens Big Ten play against Southern California on Saturday in Ann Arbor.

Head coach Sherrone Moore announced Monday that Alex Ojri will start for the Wolverines (2-1) against the No. 11 Trojans (2-0). Orji replaced Davis Warren in last weekend's 28-18 win over Arkansas State.

Moore said Monday that he's "excited" for Orji, adding, "I know he's champing at the bit."

Warren threw three interceptions against the Red Wolves before being replaced. Orji, meanwhile, completed 2 of 4 passes for 12 yards and a touchdown. He also rushed for 27 yards on three carries.

"Davis was playing good, but you can't have those turnovers," Moore said. "Orji went in there and did a good job, missed the one throw, but thought he controlled the offense pretty well. We'll go from there."

Michigan has the 121st-ranked passing offense in FBS with just 153 yards per game. The Wolverines are also 129th in the nation in interceptions, thanks to Warren's six. Warren has thrown for two TDs and 444 yards.

Orji, meanwhile, has attempted just seven passes in 12 games across three seasons at Michigan. He's also rushed 31 times for 181 yards and three scores.

--Field Level Media