Tim Tebow shares keys for JJ McCarthy to lead Michigan to win over TCU

No. 2 Michigan takes on No. 3 TCU for a spot in the College Football Playoff National Championship and J.J. McCarthy could be the biggest key. Former Heisman winner and current ESPN analyst Tim Tebow said McCarthy could get up for the moment but knew it’d be a challenge considering Michigan does not have running back Blake Corum.

While Donovan Edwards filled in greatly for Corum down the stretch of the season, McCarthy’s arm might be the do-or-die option against a high-scoring TCU squad. Tebow joined SportsCenter and broke down what McCarthy needed to do against the Horned Frogs.

“I think it’s understanding the situation, understanding the DEL,” Tebow said. “The depth, the eyes and the leverage of the defense, and knowing when they’re going to come and when they’re going to play soft coverage. When they blitz this kid is so good, so special. 12 touchdowns, one interception this season against the blitz and he’s getting better every single game.”

Tebow elaborated and said Michigan does not need deep shot after deep shot. But if McCarthy is consistent and safe with the football, it could be a long night for the TCU defense.

“So it’s not always forcing the deep shot, but when it is there when you understand the depth, the eyes, the leverage of the secondary,” Tebow said. “And you understand, okay, you’re gonna get one high, you’re gonna be able to get a good matchup and then I’m gonna force it down the field. 

“It’s something he understood against Ohio State and when he got blitzed, he put it up for his receivers. They made unbelievable catches, but he also was someone that didn’t just throw into harm’s way. That’s something he has to do. He has to be patient. Yes, they want to take shots, but take the right shots the right way.”

In 13 games this season, McCarthy has 2,376 yards, 20 touchdowns, three interceptions, a 65.2% completion percentage, 254 rushing yards and four touchdowns on the ground.

“A lot of things come with it just like days like today,” McCarthy said. “That definitely kind of puts things in perspective. A position in life or (something in your) professional life can change your life drastically and being able to kind of see that at a young age has been awesome because it prepares me for future paths and life and stuff like that. But you know, it’s a blessing and a curse and I’ve seen more blessings and curses and I love every single ounce of it.”

No. 2 Michigan (13-0) takes on No. 3 TCU (12-1) in the College Football Playoff semifinals at the Fiesta Bowl Saturday at 4:00 p.m. ET.