The University of Michigan won the Big Ten title and reached the College Football Playoff last season for the first time under Coach Jim Harbaugh, and the Wolverines did that with Cade McNamara starting every game at quarterback. However, Harbaugh still hasn't named UM's full-time starter under center this year. McNamara and 2021 backup JJ McCarthy are still competing for the job. That hasn't stopped one bettor at BetMGM from wagering $650 on McNamara (priced at +200 00) to win the Heisman Trophy, which would pay $130,000.
While leading Michigan to a 12-2 overall record in 2021, McNamara completed 210-of-327 pass attempts for 2,576 yards with 15 touchdowns and six interceptions, along with one rushing touchdown. He was named third-team All-Big Ten. McCarthy, a once-touted prospect, saw action in 11 games and completed 34-of-59 for 516 yards with five touchdowns to two interceptions. On the ground, he added 124 rushing and two scores.
Michigan is a 30.5-point home favorite on Saturday in the season opener vs. Colorado State, and Harbaugh will start McNamara. Rather unusually, Harbaugh plans to start McCarthy in Week 2 at home vs. Hawaii (his first career start) — and then afterward Harbaugh will make his full-time decision. McCarthy was limited during spring practice with a throwing shoulder injury but is fully healthy now.
“Some people have asked, 'How did you come to that decision? Was it based on some kind of NFL model?'” Harbaugh said, adding both quarterbacks are playing their best since they arrived at Michigan. “No, it's really based biblical. Solomon, he was known to be a pretty wise person. … In totality, it's neck and neck as far as what they've done in practice. So, you need to see it in the game – because that's when it really separates.”