Alex Orji may have ran for more yards than he completed through the air, but Michigan’s quarterback was just happy to walk away victorious. The Wolverines’ new starter said he was given two directives ahead of his debut on Saturday,

After three weeks of seeing the field sparingly as the backup quarterback, Alex Orji was thrust into the starting role against USC in a major Week 4 tilt. Michi

ANN ARBOR, Mich. — There’s been a lot of consternation surrounding Michigan football, even after unexpectedly beating the formerly 11th-ranked USC Trojans on Saturday, and much of it has to do with the state of the offense.

The Wolverines rushed for 220 yards in the first half, including touchdown runs of 53 and 41 yards by Kalel Mullings and Donovan Warren, respectively. They averaged 7.4 yards per carry. It was clear that by adding Orji to the equation and forcing defenses to play 11-on-11 in the run game, it made life easier for Michigan's running backs.

Orji, who has thrown seven passes in his collegiate career, will make his first start on Saturday against USC.

Orji, known for his running ability, was 7-of-12 for 32 yards, the lowest output by a Michigan quarterback since 1987, and he gained 43 yards on 13 carries. But the only numbers he cared about after the game was the final score, as Michigan won its Big Ten opener against USC, 27-24, on Saturday at Michigan Stadium.

By beating USC Saturday in his first start, Alex Orji demonstrated why he is the Michigan football team’s best option at quarterback.

Here's what to know about new Michigan football quarterback Alex Orji, who is replacing Davis Warren to start against USC.