Michigan Spring Game: Devin Gardner Proves Team Solid Post-Denard Robinson

Forgive me if I'm a bit premature here, but Devin Gardner looks like he'll be even better than Denard Robinson is now.

I'm not trying to create a QB controversy. Robinson has been dynamic, and his 3349 total yards in 2011 clearly makes him the best choice at starter. In fact, Robinson is a legitimate Heisman trophy candidate, but how good will Gardner be?

The sophomore is 6'4" and 210 pounds. He has a good arm, and he shows very good poise with limited playing time.

Robinson was his usual solid self, leading the Blue Team to 10 points early, but I was very impressed with Gardner in his time. The fluidity and control with which he moves out of the pocket and during scrambles reminds me of Cam Newton. He also showed the ability and maturity to check down and limit the risky passes down the field.

His ability as a true dual-threat will help usher in a more balanced and contemporary Wolverines attack. The first TD drive that Gardner led the team on was keyed by two athletic and smart scrambles like this one:

When Robinson moves on to the NFL after this season, Wolverines fans should be excited about the immediate future. Gardner has a chance to not only be a solid Big Ten and collegiate performer, but he also has a chance to be a great pro prospect.

Ohio State's sophomore QB Braxton Miller and Gardner will be two of the conference's most exciting stars in 2013. The two should combine for a great 2013 rivalry game, and they could possibly meet again in the 2013 Big Ten title game.

The Wolverines are in great shape post-Robinson, and Gardner is the biggest reason for that.