Michigan’s football program under Jim Harbaugh faces a confusing quarterback situation for the 2024 season despite recent successes, including a national championship. The coaching staff, known for its rigorous and collaborative recruiting process, has struggled to attract and develop high-caliber quarterbacks. Michigan’s current options consist of a seventh-year migrant, a former walk-on and two three-star recruits, raising concerns about the program’s future as it prepares to play Texas. Factors behind this dilemma include a lack of candidate identification, frequent coaching changes and deficiencies in NIL support.

In numbers

• Six of seven quarterbacks recruited by Harbaugh between 2015 and 2019 transferred during their college careers.
• Only two of those players – Cade McNamara and Joe Milton III – threw for over 600 yards at Michigan.

Yes but

Despite the program’s historic success, the recruiting challenges posed by Michigan’s run-heavy offense and personnel turnover make it difficult to find elite quarterbacks in a competitive environment filled with pass-oriented programs.

Current status

• The Wolverines are currently evaluating four quarterbacks, including a seventh-year player and two three-star recruits.
• Coach Sherrone Moore and offensive coordinator Kirk Campbell remain strictly against transfers and instead focus on internal players.

What’s next

As Michigan prepares for a crucial game against Texas, the mettle of the current quarterback competition will be put to the test. This season could be a defining moment for Michigan’s recruiting strategy and approach to quarterback development going forward.

Conclusion

Michigan must rethink its quarterback recruiting and development strategy to maintain its status among college football’s elite, as the current roster lacks the high-level talent expected for a program of this caliber.