JJ McCarthy reveals 'secret sauce' to Michigan's success ahead of CFP title game

Ahead of Michigan’s date with Washington in the College Football Playoff National Championship Game, JJ McCarthy revealed the secret to the Wolverines’ success.

Speaking with the media, McCarthy elaborated on how all the trials and tribulations the Wolverines have gone through have strengthened their bond, and allowed them to have the immense success they’re enjoying.

“It’s extremely special,” McCarthy said, regarding what it means to make the national title game with such a tight-knit group, via CFP Media Day. “I feel like that’s the reason we are here, because of how much we love each other, how much we play for each other, and you know, outside of all the NIL, outside of all the transfer portal, we’re just like, old school football team, at the end of the day.

“We go out there just leaving it all on the line every single play, and we play for each other, ultimately. I think that’s our secret sauce to our success this year.”

From Jim Harbaugh’s numerous suspensions to the doubt of the non-believers, Michigan continues to overcome obstacles. McCarthy has been their leader, and could lead them to the promise land with one more victory.

Monday will reveal all. We’ll see if JJ McCarthy can capture the long elusive championship for Michigan when they take on Washington.

Jim Harbaugh calls JJ McCarthy the greatest quarterback in Michigan, college football history

According to Jim Harbaugh, quarterback JJ McCarthy is the reason his team has gotten this far. In fact, he made the boldest claim a coach could make about his QB1. 

“The team was just not going to be denied,” Harbaugh said, following the Rose Bowl. “JJ said it when he walked off this same podium last year in the semifinal game. He said, ‘we’re going to be back.’ What he told me was not only are we going to be back, we’re going to win. And there he did. And in overtime against Alabama — I think the last quarterback to win in overtime against Alabama was none other than Tom Brady. 

“I’ve said it before, but right here, this is the greatest quarterback in University of Michigan — college football history. Got a long way to go to get to get where Tom Brady eventually got to, which is the GOAT. He lapped the field when it comes to that. But in a college career there’s been nobody at Michigan better than JJ.”

Alas, McCarthy is 26-1 as Michigan’s starting quarterback heading into next Monday’s College Football Playoff National Championship against Washington.

Since joining the program in 2021, McCarthy has compiled 5,865 passing yards, 46 passing touchdowns and 11 interceptions. He’s 2-0 against Ohio State and has led his Wolverines to two consecutive College Football Playoff appearances, and is now 1-1 in those matchups as a starter, and he’s looking to make that 2-1 next week and further solidifying his head coach’s sentiment.

On3’s Barkley Truax contributed to this article.