Going into this weekend’s contest, most are going to predict a victory for the Wolverines. Matt Drinkall and Jim Chapin have their hands full when it comes to mustering up a gameplan that will be effective against Wink Martindale’s stout defense. Central Michigan employs a three-quarterback system which they hope will be effective Saturday against the Wolverines.
Central Michigan's three-quarterback system presents a significant challenge for defenses because it forces them to prepare for three distinct skill sets and increases the unpredictability of the offense. Unlike a standard platoon, where a backup has a specific niche, CMU uses all three regularly, with each capable of running the entire playbook.
CMU offensive coordinator Jim Chapin employs three quarterbacks who offer a diverse skill set.
Getting to know the Chippewa quarterbacks:
- Joey Labas: A senior transfer from Iowa, Labas is the most experienced and the team's de-facto starter. He typically handles most of the passing duties.
- Angel Flores: A transfer from Northern Arizona, Flores is primarily a rushing threat and is used to power the ground game. He has significantly more rushing attempts than the other two combined.
- Jadyn Glasser: A physically imposing redshirt sophomore, Glasser is the biggest of the trio and contributes significantly to the running game.
There are a bevy of challenges that these three headed QB monsters could pose.
Tactical uncertainty A defense must prepare for three different quarterbacks and tailor its game plan accordingly. Drinkall notes that CMU has a "ton of personnel groupings," forcing opponents to multiply their preparation efforts to account for each potential QB.
In-game adjustments On any given snap, a defense must recognize which quarterback is in the game and anticipate the offensive play. If the defense doesn't adjust quickly, the offense can exploit a mismatch. For example, if the defense is set to defend the pass, Flores could enter the game to run the ball and catch them off guard.
Varying running attacksWhile CMU is a run-heavy team, the running style changes depending on the quarterback.
- Flores and Glasser: They add a dynamic, physical element to the run game that is different from a typical running back. As Michigan defensive run game coordinator/ linebackers coach Brian Jean-Mary observed, "the quarterback run game is one of the things they do well".
- Dispersing tackles: The rotation of different runners makes it harder for defenses to focus on stopping a single player, forcing them to spread the physical toll across more players.
Sustaining defensive intensityBecause the system is so run-focused, it is designed to wear down the defensive line over the course of a game. For a unit like Michigan's, which already faces the challenge of recovering from a tough game against a dual-threat QB, the rotation can test their stamina and concentration.
Mental and physical exhaustionThe mental toll of constantly adapting to a new personnel package is physically tiring for defenders. They must be alert to which quarterback is on the field, what their tendencies are, and how that changes the playbook for that down. This can create confusion and hesitation, leading to blown assignments and big plays for the offense.
In closing, Michigan's defensive line, which has been dominant against the run, must be prepared for three different running styles and a heavy workload.
After struggling with a single dual-threat QB against Oklahoma, Michigan’s defense must adapt to the challenge of facing three separate styles. Michigan's defenders must maintain their discipline and focus on each play, as CMU will look to exploit any signs of hesitation or confusion.