CFB pundits weigh in on Michigan's apparent QB problem as Alabama poses serious threat

Michigan will face its toughest hurdle yet in the CFP semifinal when it takes on the Alabama Crimson Tide. On a recent episode of 'The Next Round' show, CFP pundits Jim Dunaway, Ryan Browns and Lance Taylor discussed how the two teams stack up.

Dunaway pointed out that Michigan quarterback J.J. McCarthy has been unable to produce a game with more than 150 passing yards since recording 335 against Purdue back in November.

"Let's talk about what Michigan brings into this game. First of all, quarterback J.J. McCarthy," Dunaway said. "Look at this amazing stat for a guy who got a vote, one vote for the Heisman trophy. J.J. McCarthy hasn't thrown for over 150 yards since November 4 against Purdue where he went for 335. There's a reason why though, he's not throwing the ball a lot."

Lance Taylor suggested that McCarthy's ongoing ankle ailment may have played a role in his lack of production for Michigan in the last several games. He was wobbly during the game against Penn State, in which he threw for only 60 yards.

But the rushing game of the Wolverines was enough to keep them undefeated and win the Big Ten championship. However, McCarthy will have to step up his game if he wants to keep Michigan's national championship dreams alive.

"This is a guy that didn't even attempt to pass in the second half against Penn State. They haven't had to throw the football. They run the football as well as anybody. And J.J. McCarthy, I meant not to his credit, but I mean, it's a legitimate excuse," Taylor said.

"He's had an ankle injury and this gives him a little bit of time now with the break between the Big Ten Championship and the semi final in the Rose Bowl. Time to heal up a little bit because this is a mobile quarterback."

In the last four games, J.J. McCarthy only had one passing touchdown, which came during a 30-24 win over the Ohio State Buckeyes. Against Iowa in the Big Ten championship, the QB put up 147 passing yards, but it was kicker James Turner and the team's rushing game that helped them whitewash the Hawkeyes 26-0.

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Can J.J. McCarthy contribute to Michigan's national championship dreams?

J.J. McCarthy has the chance to find his lost form against Alabama in the CFP semifinal. He plans on leading Michigan while wearing custom Jordan cleats on Jan 1.

But the QB will require more than just style if the Wolverines are to have a chance at overthrowing Nick Saban's Crimson Tide, who are on a mission to clinch their seventh national title under the legendary head coach.