Jim Harbaugh names Cade McNamara No. 1 QB heading into fall camp

Michigan Football has their starting quarterback heading into fall camp, and he’s not letting anyone take the job away from him according to head coach Jim Harbaugh.

Harbaugh spoke glowingly of Cade McNamara on Wednesday during Big Ten Media Days at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.

“Right now, Cade McNamara’s done a tremendous job. He played in some games last year and did very well — went through spring practice and was outstanding. He’s our number one quarterback going into fall camp,” Harbaugh said.

McNamara saw action last season appearing in 4 games, going 43-of-71 for 425 yards along with 5 passing touchdowns. McNamara’s experience a season ago has increased his confidence, and he’s now taken more of a leadership role — which has to be the case as the QB is the straw that stirs the drink that is the offense.

“You talk about taking the reins and leadership, that’s something that he has done, he has been that guy throughout the entire spring and training cycle, the summer. By example, and also pulling other guys along with him,” Harbaugh said. “He’s a fiery competitor, he’s got that gene — that he must win, must give it his best at all times.”

Five-star freshman J.J. McCarthy appears to be right in the thick of the competition, with Harbaugh noting that McCarthy exhibits some of the same characteristics as McNamara. However, it’s McNamara’s job to lose, and McNamara’s doing everything he can to keep McCarthy on the bench. “J.J. McCarthy has some of those very same qualities and did an excellent job in spring practice. Hes fighting,” Harbaugh said. “He’s got the athletic ability and arm talent to get it done, but Cade McNamara’s not letting him take it away. And that’s probably the best thing for our team, for J.J., and for all of us.”