MJ Morris: "It's A Great Opportunity"

NC State quarterback MJ Morris discusses the transition to starter, his thoughts on the upcoming game, and much more.

NOTE: Click the video above to watch the interview.

Can you describe what the last few days have been like after the conversation with Coach Doeren?
Sunday coach Doeren told me I’d be the starting quarterback from here moving forward. God blessed me with this opportunity.  I prayed for this, I worked hard, and I stayed patient. 

My brothers, they supported me, they believe in me, and that’s a good thing to have. I’m ready to go out there and play with them on Saturday.

How much does the time ou got playing last year will help you on Saturday?
Experience always helps. Me playing in games is definitely going to help, but it depends on how hard I practice out there and treat it like a game, that’s going to determine how well I play on Saturday.

Can you describe the patience you’ve had...
Devin Leary and Brennan Armstrong, those boys have always told me to stay ready because you never know when your time is going to come so even when I’m not in, and when I’m in the film room I’m always preparing like I’m the starter.

When I go home I’m watching film... I’m one play away and you never know when that time is going to come so I’ve stayed patient but ready for when my number is called.

Who did you tell first?
It was my mom and dad.  I called them and told them I had a meeting with coach Doeren and they were like, “What happen? Are you in trouble?” 

I was like, “Nah, he told me I was going to be the starting quarterback.” Of course they were happy and they said that God has your back and go out and do what you do best.

When did you feel like you had the new offense down?
I’d say midway through the summer is when I felt like I really had it down. In the spring it’s brand new and I’m trying to figure out which reads are best with each play.

With the help of Brennan and coach Anae, meeting with them each day, and executing with the boys on the practice field. So I’d say I really feel comfortable in this offense and can execute it to the best of my abilities.

Was it weird being excited about this opportunity but having compassion for what Brennan is going through?
I wouldn’t say it’s weird because at the end of the day we are brothers. We support each other. I love him and he loves me so whether he’s on the field, I’m going to support him, and I’m on the field, he’s going to support me.  It’s no anger, it’s all love. We want to go out there and support each other... do what we do best so we can get a win for the team.

Thoughts on Armstrong’s impact learning the offense...
He’s helped a lot. He played in this offense and knows how it’s suppose to look and work. Every little detail... he and coach Anae they know the offense like the back of their hands so they help us all the team.  When I have questions Brennan is the first person I go to.

You’ve watched the first five games... what changes can you help make?
I think we have to play with a lot more energy... a lot more intensity, and that’s what we’re going to do on Saturday.  Play with a lot more emotion out there. We’re going to have fun with it. It’s a game God blessed us and we’re going to go out there and play football how it’s supposed to be played.

How have you improved since last season?
I’d say definitely the mental aspect of it. As a freshman it was my first time seeing a real ACC football team and now my mental aspect is a lot faster. I feel I’m one second faster which will make my game and decision making a lot faster.

Did you watch the games from last year often?
I’ve put them in the past. I haven’t watched those in a minute.  I’m focused on the future, focused on what’s in front of me.

How much does having Dylan McMahon back help?
I think it’s going to help a lot, but Lyndon Cooper did an amazing job. He played his butt off every play he was out there, but with Dylan back everybody is back to where they’ve been.  That chemistry in the o-line is a big thing when it comes to playing a good team like Marshall.

Was it a special moment telling Cooper?
It was a special moment because we played together in high school so when I told him he was like, “It feels like we’re back at Carrolton.”  It’s a great feeling to reunite with him and be back on the field with him at the same time.

What is this opportunity like for you?
It’s a great opportunity that God blessed me with... I’ve prayed and he has a plan for me... I’ve been through a lot, like you said with injuries and being behind somebody but I’ve seen it as a positive opportunity to learn and get healthy.

How do you feel with the receivers?
I feel really comfortable. I was a little late today because we were out there working, building our chemistry so there’s no hiccups, miscues, and we’re all on the same page. 

I was with all of the same receivers last year except for Bradley, but we’re all on the same page.

Thoughts on being ready...
Coach Doeren told me when Brennan was going to be the starter that I was going to be redshirted but to still be ready and prepare like I’m the starter. I took that to heart... I always watch film anyways so.

How excited to play in Carter-Finley?
I’m really excited to get back out and play the game that I love... I haven’t played since Boston College last year on the real stage so I have a lot of excitement for it.

Any jitters on Saturday?
Of course. If a football player tells you they’re not nervous on the first snap they are probably lying to you... but after that first snap I’m going to be locked in.