NC State football makes a change at QB. Who will lead the Pack’s struggling offense?

UPDATED OCTOBER 02, 2023 1:03 PM
Sophomore MJ Morris will take over at quarterback this weekend, N.C. State head coach Dave Doeren announced Monday.
Beginning with Saturday’s game with Marshall, Morris will replace graduate transfer Brennan Armstrong, who has struggled through the first five games.
“It was my plan and our (staff’s) plan to redshirt MJ and allow him an opportunity to develop behind Brennan,” Doeren said. “But, plans sometimes need to change, and the time is now because it’s what’s best for our team.”
Doeren said he re-watched the game Saturday by himself and discussed the situation with the offensive coaches. He made the decision Sunday, and spoke with the two players individually.
Doeren said this decision does not reflect his opinion about Armstrong. In fact, he said every single player and position group needs to be better. The defense looks like it’s in sync, but the offense does not.
Armstrong has completed 58.8% of his passes this season while throwing six interceptions with five touchdown throws. His completion percentage is 11th among the ACC’s 14 starting quarterbacks.
Averaging just six yards a completion, NC State’s passing offense is last in the ACC in that category. The Wolfpack are 13th in the ACC in passing yards per game at 194.2.
“This isn’t throwing Brennan under the bus and pinning it on him,” Doeren said. “It’s the opposite. It starts with me. I own that everyone has to be what changes.”
Armstrong will back up Morris.
“Brennan will be a great teammate to MJ. just as MJ has been to Brennan in his role,” Doeren said. “(Armstrong is) a very competitive tough guy and he understands this is what’s best for the team right now and what’s needed.
“You’ll see him leading. He’ll be on the sidelines cheering guys on throughout the game.”
Morris is the spark the Wolfpack offense needs, Doeren said. The sophomore from Carrollton, Georgia, provides great energy and a positive demeanor. The lights aren’t too bright and he doesn’t shy away from big moments.
Doeren added that Armstrong handled a difficult situation as best as can be expected. He’s going to play hard if they need him to step in again.
The initial decision to redshirt Morris this year was about his individual growth and going with more experience at the quarterback spot, Doeren said, but it’s “bailing on that a little earlier than expected.” Doeren said Morris looks good after putting in work through the offseason, fall camp and September.
In five games last season, Morris completed 52 of 86 passes (60.5%) for 648 yards with seven touchdowns and just one interception.
The Wolfpack hopes its fans return this weekend with energy and excitement, not allowing some of the recent results deter them from showing support.
“Hang in there, be faithful, cheer hard, and get excited,” Doeren said. “We’re going to continue to do everything we can here to put our best foot forward as a program, and I would hope that our supporters do the same.”