A dual-threat quarterback, Mike McCarthy started 41 consecutive games for the Bridgewater State football team from 2010 to 2013. The team’s overall record during his career was 27-14. Mike helped lead the Bears to the 2011 ECAC Northeast Bowl and 2012 NCAA Division III Tournament. In his four seasons, Mike completed 361 out of 707 pass attempts (51.1%) for 4,672 yards and 41 touchdowns. He also rushed for 2,806 yards and 42 touchdowns. Mike ended his career as the Bears' all-time leader in total offense (7,478 yards), passing yards (since broken), and completions (since broken). He also ranks second in rushing touchdowns and rushing attempts (670), third in pass attempts, and fourth in rushing yards, completion percentage, passing touchdowns and scoring (252 pts.).

During his senior year, Mike was tied for sixth in all of Division III in points responsible for (210). As team captain, he was selected to the All-MASCAC First Team in 2013. For his outstanding leadership and performance on the field, Mike was twice selected BSU Offensive MVP and won the 2013 Tom Cook Award. Mike is also the only three-time recipient of the Lee Harrington Most Valuable Player award for his performances in the Cranberry Bowl.

Following his career, Mike was selected to play in the All-American Bowl and signed two professional contracts playing for the Geneva Seahawks in Switzerland and for the New Hampshire Brigade in the arena football league. He also coached quarterbacks for the BSU football team from 2014 to 2016, helping guide the Bears to an NCAA Tournament bid in 2016.

Mike graduated in 2014 with a Bachelor of Science degree in physical education he is currently teaching health at Plymouth North High School and is in his first season as the offensive coordinator for the Plymouth North varsity football team. He is also the owner and operator of M2 QB Academy, a quarterback training business mentoring youth, high school quarterbacks throughout New England. He and his wife, Hannah, presently reside in Plymouth.