Publication dubs Denard Robinson a 'mediocre passer,' says he's still the top QB in America
Denard Robinson may never turn into a star quarterback at the next level, but for right now, that doesn't really matter.
His star-power is, apparently, plenty big enough.
College Football News named the Michigan football team's dynamic senior signal caller as its first-team All-American quarterback earlier this month, ahead of USC's Matt Barkley -- the potential top-overall selection in the 2013 NFL draft.
Michigan quarterback Denard Robinson was named a first-team All-American by College Football News earlier this month.
Melanie Maxwell | AnnArbor.com
"He’s a mediocre passer -- completing 55% of his throws for 2,173 yards, 20 touchdowns, and 15 picks last season -- and he seems to have a habit of throwing bad interceptions at puzzling times, but any of the negatives are offset by his phenomenal playmaking skills," the publication explained. "He’ll be a receiver at the next level with his Florida state champion-level, 4.32 sprinter’s speed, and the coaching staff will still do what it can to make sure he won’t take more hits than he has to, but he’s the key to the season.
"This will be a great Michigan team, but it needs No. 16 to shine to be truly special."
Perhaps one reason CFN believes Robinson will have such a successful season is because of the protection he'll receive from his blind side.
The publication listed Michigan junior offensive tackle Taylor Lewan as a second-team member of its All-American squad, bringing more preseason praise to the hulking lineman -- a player many believe could be a first-round selection in the 2013 NFL draft.
"More of a leader coming into this season, this will be his line with center David Molk gone, and he seems to be taking to the role," CFN wrote. "With his size, athleticism and frame he has the potential to be among the top 50 picks in next year’s draft and could be a first rounder with a great final season and if he can stay healthy."
Nick Baumgardner covers Michigan sports for AnnArbor.com. He can be reached at 734-623-2514, by email at nickbaumgardner@annarbor.com and followed on Twitter @nickbaumgardner.
Comments
Josh
Thu, Jun 28, 2012 : 8:19 p.m.
Denard Robinson is going to finish his Michigan football career as one of the greatest to ever wear the Winged-Helmet. True fans appreciate his live by the gun die by the gun attitude. The mistakes he makes in the passing game come only from a desire to win. Sports history has proven that the greats always brush with incredible, fail in the big stage initially, and finally find the glory. This kid comes with no ego. Watching him grow, it would be impossible for him not to improve on what he did last year as long as he stays healthy. He finished the last 6 games of the season averaging 1 INT per game. Which means he started to understand the offense better and worked hard to limit his mistakes. That translated into wins. I predict that this year Denard Robinson will eat.
Billy Bob Schwartz
Thu, Jun 21, 2012 : 3:50 p.m.
Anybody remember a Michigan Man we all called AC? Anthony Carter. Check out wiki: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anthony_Carter_(American_football) Yes, AC was taller, but skinny (5'11" but 160 pounds). I always called him Mr. Spindle Legs (always with respect). The first time I saw him I laughed out loud, expecting him to be destroyed on the first play. I was way off. If you want to hurt him, you have to catch him. He went pro. (I think they left and came back and drafted him as an afterthought.) Please read his record. The thing about AC and Tom Brady and Denard is that they don't ever consider themselves to be a finished product. They always look for ways to improve. The Denard of Fall 2012 won't be the Denard of January 2012, and he will keep finding ways to improve throughout his career. In football as in most other aspects of life, attitude is everything, and Denard has a great one.
MRunner73
Thu, Jun 21, 2012 : 1:58 p.m.
Those comments are based on the body of work the past few years. He is very likely to improve. He is also likely to become an above average passer in his Senior year. I don't expect him to be the best passer in nation or even the conference but don't under estimate Denard's ability to improve.
Ron Granger
Thu, Jun 21, 2012 : 1:47 p.m.
Denard Robinson is short. They're even cagey about his actual height. He cannot see over his own line, or over the defenders. Those dudes in the NFL? Tall. Very tall. Denard's height will forever limit his ability as a quarterback. I leave it to the football experts to analyze how Denard's height compares to successful NFL QB's.
Don Eggen
Thu, Jun 21, 2012 : 3:49 a.m.
I think DRob had a 64% completion rate his soph year. The ints are a legit critique, but when he doesn't throw off his back foot and sets himself and feet he is a pretty good passer.
Steve McQueen
Thu, Jun 21, 2012 : 3:16 a.m.
Denard may very well be a "mediocre" passer. That is not news to anyone. If you think of it... should Denard become a great or even a very good passer, then he would be among the greatest QBs ever to play the game. Will that happen this season, if Denard were to become a very good passer? Perhaps... but even if it doesnt happen and Denard remains a "mediocre" passer....well he still is one of the most dynamic players in college football and will always have a warm place in the hearts of Michigan fans.
Iliketurtles
Thu, Jun 21, 2012 : 12:10 a.m.
Denard throws a wobbly spiral at best. As the fastest player in the NCAA how do you not tie your shoes. If the football team knew at all what they were doing they would move him to wide receiver and put somebody who can throw a football under center.
Blue Marker
Thu, Jun 21, 2012 : 1:11 p.m.
He throws a frozen rope if he sets his feet and has a moment. It's when he trys to throw on the run or under presure that things get ugly.
Hailmary
Thu, Jun 21, 2012 : 5:13 a.m.
turtles are slow on their feet.
Bernie
Wed, Jun 20, 2012 : 9:59 p.m.
As a OSU fan transplant living here in UofM country, I find it funny that the pub does not measure heart and will. And Denard has the heart of a lion and is a great kid to boot. He loves his university and is a great role model to boot! He is such an impressive kid I can't root against him( but I do) I think he will transition to next level like Doug Flutie. I hope nothing but good luck for this kid in the future (except against Buckeyes) UofM did a great job getting this kid, and he repaid them by being a great athelete but more import a GREAT kid that has done nothing but represent UofM the right way! Unlike the turd qb you guys almost got and we"won" Terrel Pryor. So count your blessings.
Blue Marker
Thu, Jun 21, 2012 : 1:19 p.m.
This may be the most anticipated UM vs. MSU match-up in a while! I'm thinking since the days of Nick Saban. I love D-Rob but I don't see him at the next level in any capacity. He's just too frail to survive in my opinion. And you don't just walk into the NFL and play receiver if you've never played the position before. Many players are great college players but never make it at the next level.
griffithgrant
Wed, Jun 20, 2012 : 11:58 p.m.
I have to agree with Bernie on most points. I, myself am a Spartan fan, but I appreciate his love of the game and skill set. I do enjoy watching him play. He represents the University well and is a great Student Athlete. As far as his skills as a "passing QB", there's no doubt that he has shown to be sub-par, throwing up numerous ducks off his back foot. That being said, his speed and break-away ability more often that not, get it done. I don't think he'll be a "Doug Flutie" at the next level, but if he embraces a change of position he will be an elite threat. I see him in the mold of Desmond Howard. Not a bad guy to take after. Looking forward to October 20th! Should be a great game. Go State!
heartbreakM
Wed, Jun 20, 2012 : 8:55 p.m.
I think CFN is right about his passing not being elite to date. He passed better two seasons ago than last year, though I think the Nebraska and Ohio games were a big step up for him. Is it mechanics? Trying to learn a new offense? Trying to stay out of harm's way? Whatever it is, I predict he will improve his mechanics this year, be a better passer, yet still have to be accounted for with his legs. But his leadership is beyond reproach. There is no better leader on this football team, with his very positive attitude, his big time embrace of the students/fans, and his pure love of the game. And if defenses don't account for him, he can make them pay. I'll take it, though like any QB, he is not perfect and can improve. Just like all of us in life.
truebluefan
Sun, Jun 24, 2012 : 2:05 p.m.
I think DR passed better under RR than Hoke because he was more of a threat to run in RR's offense. The passes were also easier to make in RR's offense. One of my complaints with Borges is he tried to do too much with DR passing the ball. He forced the pro style offense early in the season and DR faltered. He got better as the season progressed to more and more spread but the passing game was still too complex for DR.
Hailmary
Thu, Jun 21, 2012 : 5:17 a.m.
At last, two foes from our Big rivalry schools with objective thinking and yet able to concisely identify the schools they root for without being obnoxious. My hats off to you both.
Hammer
Wed, Jun 20, 2012 : 7:45 p.m.
He does throw the occasional meatball but defenses are too worried about the run to capitalize on them.
Tally10
Wed, Jun 20, 2012 : 7:12 p.m.
2012 SUGAR BOWL: Late in the 4th qtr., MICHIGAN with 3rd and 13. The ball is snapped, VT brings heavy pressure, the WRs are covered down field, Andrew Luck is tripped up but with his athleticism, regains his footing, scrabbled out of the pocket and had the awareness to find a temporarily open Jr. Hemmingway, ALuck fires the ball in a small window just out of the safety's reach where only JH can make the play, JH takes it to the house...TOUCH DOWN!!! Oh ma bad, that was DR. That's how that play would have been viewed had it been AL. DR is a Stock Market QB ( higher risk ), not the Money Market type, so 55% doesn't tell the whole story.
Craig Lounsbury
Wed, Jun 20, 2012 : 6:14 p.m.
I'm glad he is the quarterback of my favorite college team. On the other hand I wouldn't want my favorite pro team to draft him as a quarterback or anything else higher than the 4th round.
Howard the Duck
Wed, Jun 20, 2012 : 5:58 p.m.
Denard will also be a Heisman favorite too... right up until the time the Spartans spank him like a stepchild!
unclefred
Fri, Jun 22, 2012 : 7:07 p.m.
Assuming both teams are healthy when they play, you'll have to opportunity to get used to losing again.
umgoblue47
Wed, Jun 20, 2012 : 6:29 p.m.
duck, you quack me up! make sure you bring your crying towel, because little bro is going to meet spanky and our gang!! GO BLUE!!!!!!
A2D2
Wed, Jun 20, 2012 : 5:43 p.m.
College football news has Just another article written by a 5'6", 137 pound guy who never made it past junior high flag football. . Denard is made of pure dilithium, my friend!
SEC Fan
Wed, Jun 20, 2012 : 6:20 p.m.
the real dilithium or the fantasy stuff in Star Trek?
UlyssesWrong1
Wed, Jun 20, 2012 : 5:36 p.m.
Denard Robinson has elite speed at QB, unfortunately his passing is on the same level as Tim Tebow.
GoblueinNE_PA
Thu, Jun 21, 2012 : 9:56 p.m.
You guys need to stop feeding the trolls. As for comparing Tebow to DRob, they're close. Neither has a throwing motion that will enable them to be successful in the NFL long term. The difference is that DRob will be willing to move to his natural position at the next level. Had Tebow been able to swallow his pride and become the full back or tight end that his skill set says he is, he COULD have been all pro. As it is, he's a circus freak.
Blue Marker
Thu, Jun 21, 2012 : 11:40 a.m.
I have to wonder what type of person clings to a web site that features a team they can't stand just to get in confrontations with people they don't like. Who needs that in their life? You know how many comments you'll see from me on an OSU site, or any other team for that matter? None, not one. You want to know why? Because I don't care about those teams and I'm not looking to get in a cyber-argument with everyone. Again, I just wonder about a person that seeks confrontation. I think it says a lot about a person and how they look at life. Have a wonderful day!
SEC Fan
Thu, Jun 21, 2012 : 2 a.m.
The really sad thing, Aarox, is that what you say is true...and your athletic director has had to fire some 80 people because of it...and all these "smart" UM Grads still can't figure out why... But everyone outside of AA doesn't mind...it's more fun to watch the yellow and blue than any comedy. It's as if you guys have modeled your school after Major Burns from MASH.
Hailmary
Wed, Jun 20, 2012 : 8:58 p.m.
sec is a Big 10 fan just having fun hiding behind some initials. No one in their right mind wastes this much time on another conference site unless they are a fan of the Big 10 like sec. Now on the other hand, if he is a sec fan and he's wasting this much time well, you folks can draw your own conclusions.
aarox
Wed, Jun 20, 2012 : 6:42 p.m.
SEC fan -- we are MEEECHIGAN. This means, among other things, that we do not let facts get in our way. If you are obsessed with being right, you need to move to a different site. GO BLUE! (sometimes blindly, but always BLUE)
SEC Fan
Wed, Jun 20, 2012 : 6:15 p.m.
and the TD numbers are passing and do not include rushing. Add another 57 rushing TDs for Tebow.
SEC Fan
Wed, Jun 20, 2012 : 6:13 p.m.
Please, he's not close to the level Tebow was in college. Tebow was a superior college QB by every single measure. Tebow completed 66.4% of his passes for 9,285 yards. 9.3 yds per attempt, 88 TDs and 16 INTs. (was a backup his freshman year). He also won the Heisman and a National Championship. For comparison: - Peyton Manning completed 62.5% for 11,201 yds. 8.1 yds per attempt with 89 TDs and 33 INTs. (started all but 4 games of college career) - Eli Manning completed 60.8% for 10,119 yds. 7.4 yds per attempt with 81 TDs and 31 INTs. - Dan Marino completed 57.7% for 7,905 yds. 73.yds per attempt with 74 TDs and 64INTs. - Tom Brady completed 62.3% for 5,351 yds. 7.5yds per attempt with 35 TDs and 19 INTs (didn't start freshman/sophomore years) These are FACTS...not rhetoric.
GoBigBlue
Wed, Jun 20, 2012 : 5:51 p.m.
I would re-phrase this statement to, "his passing is on the same level as Tim Tebow, FORTUNATELY, he has elite speed." : )
BornInA2
Wed, Jun 20, 2012 : 5:32 p.m.
Hard to fault them when it's generally accepted as true. He can, however (hopefully) change that impression this fall. Hail!
cmdvimes
Wed, Jun 20, 2012 : 5:31 p.m.
Denard is simply poetry in motion.
Billy Bob Schwartz
Thu, Jun 21, 2012 : 3:34 p.m.
Garrison: Wonderful, wonderful, wonderful. I think he is DENARD MICHIGAN poetry in motion. I don't care if he goes pro or takes that jerk Herbohio's broadcasting job. I just love him as a Michigan Man. Go Blue.
garrisondyer
Thu, Jun 21, 2012 : 1:40 p.m.
Hard as it is to believe, it's poetry that's even better than this! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sLt50lUbg_A
Blue Marker
Thu, Jun 21, 2012 : 11:20 a.m.
More like Robert "Ufer" Frost. Maybe I'm dating myself here.
SEC Fan
Wed, Jun 20, 2012 : 6:25 p.m.
yeah, Julia A. Moore type poetry...
harry
Wed, Jun 20, 2012 : 5:01 p.m.
Whatever. I am glad we have him. He sure makes the game fun to watch.
Terry Star21
Wed, Jun 20, 2012 : 5 p.m.
""He's a mediocre passer -- completing 55% of his throws....". Well, that statement should be corrected to 'a past mediocre...' However, he's a complete Quarterback and the only thing that matters for Michigan is; HE CAN GET THE JOB DONE ! Can't speak for DRob, but I could see him chuckling on the 'mediocre' comment, then cracking a smile and do what he does best - being DRob, this years greatest college quarterback. MgoBlueForTiM...pre-season All-American, post season National champion.
rs
Wed, Jun 20, 2012 : 4:38 p.m.
Nobody expected Tom Brady to do very well in the NFL either.
Craig Lounsbury
Wed, Jun 20, 2012 : 6:02 p.m.
Peyton Manning and Ryan Leaf were drafted 1-2 in 1998. Everyone said you could flip a coin between the two. So the draft and the pro scouts are not perfect. But they get a lot more right than wrong overall in assessing talent. A Tom Brady event is pretty rare.
Frankyhollywood68
Wed, Jun 20, 2012 : 4:21 p.m.
wouldn't that be funny if an NFL team gambled on him at QB and he became a huge success and won 6 super bowls! I would laugh my ass off. That's why I hate Michigan football and their fans. they're all fair weather and talk so poorly of thier players if they don't perform like they want.
garrisondyer
Thu, Jun 21, 2012 : 1:37 p.m.
Ummmm, Franky? Tally?? Where are you two from and why did you permanently leave those marks of ignorance on the Internet? Some people have been very skeptical of DR being an NFL QB, but pretty much all of the people who tear him down and laugh at his chances of realizing his goal aren't from around here and don't actually cheer on the Michigan football team.
1bit
Thu, Jun 21, 2012 : 3:10 a.m.
This comment has nothing to do with the article. Every Michigan fan wants DR to succeed.
Hailmary
Wed, Jun 20, 2012 : 8:52 p.m.
Frankie, where's Johnny ?
gr82bamichwlvrine
Wed, Jun 20, 2012 : 5:38 p.m.
Put the crack pipe down Franky. ANYONE wearing the winged helmet has the support of the Michigan fans when they are a team-first player and a good representative of UM off the field. Crawl back to whereever you came from.....either EL or THE worst state ever.
Terry Star21
Wed, Jun 20, 2012 : 5:03 p.m.
Franky....I'm sure you're a bit confused here, and talking about the fans north and south of here, both green with envy and red in the face from defeat by the hands of MICHIGAN - the Greatest College Football Team of All Time.
Tally10
Wed, Jun 20, 2012 : 4:57 p.m.
Agree...I think some fans would rather see DR fail just because he's not the model QB they want. They give so much praise to Shane Morris, I'm glad he's coming to UM as well, but as of right now he hasn't won anything for MICHIGAN.