Michigan will reopen its quarterback competition following the firing of offensive coordinator Jason Beck, head coach Kyle Whittingham announced Monday.
Freshman Tommy Carr started the past three games, including Saturday's 15-6 loss to Michigan State. Carr had replaced former No. 1 recruit Bryce Underwood after weeks of inconsistent play, leading the team to a win over Penn State. As a starter, Carr went 1-2, guiding an overtime performance against Indiana and a victory over Rutgers where he threw for 266 yards and three touchdowns.
Just last week, Whittingham stated Carr would remain the starter for the "foreseeable future" after the Rutgers win. However, the loss to Michigan State — Michigan's first without allowing a touchdown since 1985 and the Spartans' first Big Ten victory of the season — prompted a change. Carr completed just 138 yards with two interceptions on 26 attempts, and the offense was held scoreless until the final minutes of the fourth quarter.
After paying more than $7 million in buyout money to Beck, Whittingham promoted offensive line coach Jim Harding to interim offensive coordinator. Underwood, a sophomore who completed 58% of his passes with five touchdowns and six interceptions before being benched, now has an opportunity to reclaim the starting role for the remainder of the season.
Michigan currently ranks No. 132 in total offense, ahead of only Michigan State among Power Four programs.
