Jim Harbaugh dealt Jalen Milroe a fresh batch of disrespect
Jim Harbaugh has been making headlines plenty this season and that hasn't changed during Rose Bowl prep and interviews.
Preparing for Alabama isn't an easy task and Harbaugh knows that facing a dual-threat quarterback like Jalen Milroe will cause some problems -- a lot of problems.
Harbaugh was asked about the talented Alabama quarterback and his answer caused some waves around social media as it came off as disrespectful to Milroe.
The Michigan head coach compared Milroe to his own backup quarterback.
Jim Harbaugh calls Jalen Milroe a “polished Alex Orji.” Said that’s a “scary thought” given that Orji is Michigan’s “scariest, most athletic player.” pic.twitter.com/S2AS8aDK78
— Zach Shaw (@_ZachShaw) December 27, 2023
While Harbaugh didn't intend for this to be disrespectful, he can't be all that surprised that the backlash is painting this to be bulletin board material for the Crimson Tide quarterback and being compared to Michigan's backup quarterback when he was legitimately a Heisman candidate and one of the most dangerous dual-threats in the nation has to feel, well, not great for Milroe.
For reference, Orji has one career pass attempt and 17 career rushes for 106 yards and three touchdowns. Milroe, on the other hand, has 2,718 yards and 23 passing touchdowns to go along with 468 rushing yards and 12 more scores this season. Not comparable.
While Harbaugh did say that it was a compliment because Orji is the most explosive athlete that the Wolverines have, it doesn't necessarily feel all that glowing of a review.
Milroe is a starting quarterback for Alabama who engineered a 12-1 season to this point, sticking it to No. 1 Georgia in the SEC title game. Orji is a backup in arguably a weaker conference.
Plus, Harbaugh stated that Orji could compete for the starting job in 2024 or 2025. Milroe is a starter no matter where he plays.
Expect Milroe to take this "compliment" and turn it into motivation.