Grades: Michigan's use of Denard Robinson among lowlights in ugly loss

Melanie Maxwell | AnnArbor.comDenard Robinson did a lot of passing against Alabama. A lot.

ARLINGTON, Texas -- It was ugly early and often, and the Michigan football team's grades reflect it.

A look at how a few key players performed in the Wolverines' 41-14 loss Saturday to No. 2 Alabama:

Roy Roundtree: Roundtree was touted by coaches as being the Wolverines' top receiver this offseason, despite suffering the worst drop in catches in school history last year. Early results: No good. As in, no catches until the game was 41-14 with 5:21 to play. F

Devin Gardner: The junior's offseason foray at reciever was billed by coaches as a part-time deal, but Gardner played the whole game at receiver (and third-string quarterback Russell Bellomy was prepared to play when Denard Robinson went down with an injury). Gardner's initial results were mixed. He dropped a ball on Michigan's first offensive play, and dropped another he should have had -- but also caught a 44-yard touchdown pass on his first reception and flashed athleticsm that could make him dangerous when he puts it all together. But he needs seasoning. B-

Courtney Avery: The junior cornerback, forced into action after Blake Countess suffered a knee injury, was consistently beat in coverage -- including on a 51-yard touchdown pass in the first half. He was beat on another sure touchdown early in the fourth quarter, but the receiver was overthrown. D-

Jeremy Gallon: The junior receiver was a bright spot on a gloomy day, and Michigan's only consistent offensive weapon. He finished with four catches for 107 yards, a career high, to help make up for the lack of production from top receiver Roy Roundree. A

Defensive line: Greg Mattison shuffled the lineup frequently, yet never found a combination that could slow Alabama's rushing attack. The Tide finished with 232 yards rushing, and eventually became the first team to eclipse the 40-point barrier against a Brady Hoke-coached Michigan team. D+

Al Borges: Alabama's defense consistently neutralized the Wolverines' offense, yet Denard Robinson -- their fastest player and best playmaker -- received just two rushes in the first half. Michigan basically turned Robinson into a pocket passer, which is not his game. Michigan suffered for it, as it couldn't sustain drives and Alabama jumped to a 31-0 lead. D

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