Final Four 2012: Thomas Robinson and Kansas Stars Who Must Shine to Win Title

Kansas has been living on the edge for most of the NCAA Tournament, but the Jayhawks have always found a way to survive and advance. They have reached the Final Four and are now just two victories away from their fourth championship.

Let's take a look at three players who need to excel if Kansas is going cut down the nets in New Orleans, something most people still aren't expecting with a dominant Kentucky squad looming.

Thomas Robinson

Robinson doesn't garner enough attention as one of the nation's top players. His massive improvement from last season in virtually every area of his game, most notably adding a useful mid-range jump shot to his arsenal, has made him a defender's nightmare.

He was only a role player during his first two seasons at Kansas, but Bill Self seen enough to make him a major contributor. Robinson has taken the opportunity and run with it, averaging a double-double while shooting better than 50 percent from the field.

The Jayhawks will need to go through two talented big men, Jared Sullinger and Anthony Davis, to win the title. Robinson must outshine both of them to make it happen.

Tyshawn Taylor

Much like Robinson, Taylor was simply another player chipping in last season before being asked to take on a larger role. The pair has formed a dynamic duo, allowing the Jayhawks to make a deep run after starting the year with a lot of questions.

What makes him so valuable is his ability to do so many different things. Whether it's knocking down a key shot, finding the perfect pass or stepping up to make a huge steal, Taylor always finds a way to leave his imprint on every game.

The Jayhawks don't have a lot of guard depth, so Taylor will be asked to play extended minutes while maintaining his efficiency. It's another test, but he's passed them all so far.

Jeff Withey

Every team needs an unsung hero to survive the six-game NCAA journey. Somebody whose contributions don't always stand out in the box score. That's the role Withey has filled for Kansas all season and continues to do so in the big dance.

He makes most of his impact on the defensive end. The junior center is average five blocks per game during the tournament and is altering a handful more. His ability to control the paint takes a lot of pressure off Kansas' other defenders because they always have him back there to erase mistakes.

Withey won't garner any headlines or be named to the All-Tournament Team, but without him the Jayhawks wouldn't be in the Final Four. And they won't win the title unless he keeps playing so well.