Urban Meyer compares Michigan quarterback battle to Chris Leak, Tim Tebow situation: 'I'd play them both'

Michigan is in an unusual predicament. Two weeks into the season, the Wolverines are still unsure who their best option at quarterback is. On Friday, former Florida and Ohio State head coach Urban Meyer offered Michigan some simple advice.

“I’d play them both,” Meyer said. “When I was the head coach of Florida, we had Chris Leak and Tim Tebow. And, I would have our coaches rank the players — top 15 in a row. If you’re in the top 11, you’re playing. Tim Tebow was always in the top 11, so he’s going to play.

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“Alex Orji — how do you not play this cat? He’s 235 pounds. I think he’s as good a runner, athlete as they have. He’s got to play. So don’t tell me about the scheme. Tell me how you get this kid the ball. He’s got to carry the ball for the Wolverines.”

In 2006, Tim Tebow was a highly-touted freshman sweeping onto the scene for the Gators. While he turned heads in practice, Meyer ultimately went with veteran QB Chris Leak as the team’s starter. Nonetheless, Meyer’s decision didn’t prevent him from utilizing both talents.

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At the time, Tebow was particularly praised for his build and strong running ability — similar to Orji. In turn, Meyer would use Tebow in short down situations to punch the ball past the defense either for a first down or a touchdown.

Tebow finished the season with eight rushing touchdowns and five passing scores. Meanwhile, Leak continued to lead Florida’s aerial raid, tallying 2,942 passing yards and 23 touchdown throws. Meyer’s dual-QB threat worked to perfection, and Florida defeated Ohio State in the national championship.

Although nearly two decades have passed since then, Meyer believes Michigan can still find success with a similar strategy. Starting quarterback Davis Warren is similar to Leak and widely viewed as a better passer than Orji.

However, Orji’s talents are undeniable. With athleticism that can’t be taught, Orji is a threat to any defense. In Michigan’s 30-10 win over Fresno State in Week 1, Orji amassed 32 rushing yards on just six carries.

Now squaring off against the No. 3 Texas Longhorns on Saturday, Meyer believes the Wolverines will need both quarterbacks at their best. The two teams will clash at noon ET. The game will be broadcast on FOX.