Tommy Carr, a true freshman from Saline, has been named the starting quarterback for the University of Michigan’s football team for their Week 8 game against the No. 6 Indiana Hoosiers. Carr earned the starting role after leading Michigan to a comeback victory over Penn State, marking the Wolverines’ first Big Ten win of the season. This opportunity puts him in the running to secure the starting quarterback position for the remainder of the season, possibly supplanting the previous starter Bryce Underwood. S1
A legacy rooted in Michigan football history
The Carr name carries significant weight at Michigan, originating with Tommy’s grandfather, Lloyd Carr. Lloyd served as Michigan’s head football coach from 1995 to 2007 and led the team to a national championship in 1997, the program’s last until their recent title in 2023. Before his head coaching tenure, Lloyd joined Michigan’s coaching staff in 1980 and served as defensive coordinator starting in 1987, culminating in an extensive 38-season involvement in the Wolverines’ program. His contributions establish him as one of the most celebrated figures in Michigan football history. S1
The Carr family’s quarterback tradition
Tommy Carr’s emergence at Michigan is part of a broader family tradition of quarterback excellence. His father, Jason Carr, was a backup quarterback at Michigan from 1992 to 1995, playing his senior season under his own father, Lloyd. Furthermore, Tommy’s older brother, CJ Carr, is the current starting quarterback for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish and is considered a Heisman Trophy contender. CJ was one of the most sought-after quarterbacks in the 2024 recruiting class, and his decision to choose Notre Dame over Michigan was notable across college football circles. S1
Recruitment and recent developments
Tommy Carr’s path to becoming Michigan’s quarterback was also marked by recruitment dynamics. Initially, he committed to Miami (Ohio) but flipped his commitment to Michigan ahead of the 2026 season. Meanwhile, CJ Carr’s decision to join Notre Dame added an intriguing sibling dynamic to the college football landscape, with both brothers now leading two major programs as starting quarterbacks. This continuation of the Carr family’s presence in NCAA Division I football highlights a compelling narrative of tradition, talent, and rivalry. S1
