2011 Bowl Predictions: Michigan Will Take Virgina Tech by Storm

The best way to beat an opponent is to take them by storm before they even know what hit them, and that's exactly how the Michigan Wolverines need to approach their Sugar Bowl matchup with the Virginia Tech Hokies.

It's no secret that the Hokies are really good at stopping the run. Ranked No. 12 in the nation with 235.7 yards per game, it's also no secret that the Wolverines are very good at running the ball.

This game will fundamentally go back to the age-old question: What happens when an unstoppable force meets an immovable object?

Virginia Tech defense, meet Denard Robinson, the unstoppable force.

I've been rather vocal in my criticism of Robinson this year as a passing quarterback, but as a runner there can be no denying his ability to make plays.

He may be one of the best rushing quarterbacks college football has seen when all is said and done.

On 208 rushing attempts this year, Robinson accumulated 1,163 yards and 16 touchdowns with a 5.6 yards per carry average.

To put that into perspective, he's ranked 27th in the nation in rushing yards, and that's on the list of running backs.

Add that to the 2,056 passing yards and 18 touchdowns and you'll see why so many people are high on the guy. If it weren't for the 14 interceptions, we'd be talking about a Heisman candidate.

So just how do the Wolverines come out and take the Hokies by storm?

Two words, one person: Denard Robinson.

If I'm Brady Hoke and the Wolverines I'm letting Robinson do his thing early and often. Forget trying to turn him into a passing quarterback, right now the development of his "pocket presence" doesn't matter.

Put him in the backfield and let him run that dangerous read-option draw play, and just go to work on the Hokies defense.

Forget the gimmicks and for all I care forget the passing game.

Get shoelace in the open field where he's best, and do it quick.

If the Wolverines play their cards right they could run the Hokies out of the Sugar Bowl before they even knew it began.

I expect the Wolverines will take Virginia Tech by storm, and they will do so with Robinson.