Michigan Football: 5 Players Who Need to Step It Up in 2012

Michigan football is headed for another great year in 2012.  That is, if its top players produce.

The Wolverines are coming off a very impressive 2011 BCS Sugar Bowl victory.  The team is poised to contend in 2012, perhaps even for the BCS National Title.

But to do that, five players ranging from stars to new contributors will need to step up and provide big contributions in 2012!

Denard Robinson, Quarterback

I know, saying Denard Robinson needs to "step it up" in 2012 is totally unfair.  He is one of the best quarterbacks in college football.

Nonetheless, if Michigan wants to contend for a BCS National Title, Robinson needs to get even better. He needs to improve his passing, particularly on deep balls, and learn to maintain poise when passing out of the pocket.

Robinson grew as a quarterback in 2011 and, if he develops those skills in 2012, the Wolverines will be one of college football's most dangerous teams.  

Ondre Pipkis, Defensive Tackle

Ondre Pipkins is a new addition to the Michigan Wolverines.  But his talent and losses on the defensive line mean that he will need to step up in 2012.

Michigan lost its two starting defensive tackles from 2011, Ryan Van Bergen and Mike Martin, so new blood will need to contribute.  Pipkins is the best talent in the group and coach Brady Hoke will try to mold him into Michigan's newest defensive star. 

Roy Roundtree, Wide Receiver

Roy Roundtree was supposed to be Michigan's star receiver in 2011.  He was not a total bust but did not live up to his potential.

In 2012, Michigan will look for production from several receivers but the unit will not excel without Roundtree.  He is the veteran star now and the team will be much, much better if he can step up and produce.  

Jerald Robinson, Wide Receiver

If Roy Roundtree is the veteran star, Jerald Robinson is the young super-talent.

Michigan will need both to produce in order to contend in 2012.  But the future lies with Robinson.  He has the talent to be a true No. 1 wideout for Denard Robinson and the Wolverines.  

Devin Funchess, Tight End

Michigan really needed more tight end production in 2011.  Denard Robinson did not have a great safety valve and suffered because of it.

If Michigan is to contend, new addition Devin Funchess could be a critical piece.  He needs to step up and be Robinson's safety net and Michigan's next star tight end.