Why Michigan QB Denard Robinson Is Legitimate Heisman Candidate

Denard Robinson had a Heisman trophy-type year last year, but unfortunately wasn't even invited to New York.

Some think he can do it again this year, while others aren't so sure.  Either way, he is still one of the best players in college football.

Here's a look at the main reasons Robinson could be a realistic Heisman contender.

No. 4: The Fans Love Him

Robinson is one of the most beloved players by fans, not just at Michigan, but all around the country. He is one of the nicest guys you will ever meet and loves to interact with the fans.

Fan love may not be as influential to voters as other traits,  but nobody wants to see a self-centered player win the Heisman.

If Robinson does win it, he would give all the credit to his teammates.  That's the kind of player the nation wants to see do well.

No. 3: Michigan Is Currently 3-0

Even though it's not fair, only players on good teams win the Heisman.  It's not a great players' fault that the team around him may stink.

Michigan is currently undefeated which is why his name has popped back up in Heisman talks. If Michigan starts losing, he will fall out of the discussion no matter how well he performs.

Again, it's not fair, but that's what the media does. If Michigan has a nine or 10 win season, then Robinson wouldn't necessarily have to play great and he could still be invited to New York.

No. 2: He Is the Best Athlete in the Country

The Heisman trophy goes to the best player in college football, and Robinson just might fit that bill.

Nobody has a better combination of athleticism and speed than Robinson. Heck, he could probably beat any other college football player in a race.

Jeff Demps could pose a challenge, as could his teammate Chris Rainey, but Robinson certainly isn't slower than either of those two.

His ability to make guys miss in the open field is unlike any other player's.  Even though he isn't the biggest guy, he is very durable.

Robinson is the best athlete in the country and therefore should be one of the top two or three contenders for the trophy.

No. 1: He Means More to His Team Than Anybody Else

Robinson was Michigan's entire offense last year, and it looks like he just might be again this year.  The fact that defenses can focus in on him yet he still beats them is amazing.

Some people are saying that Landry Jones is more valuable to Oklahoma, but look at the players around him. 

He has one of the best group of receivers in the country with Ryan Broyles, Kenny Stills, Trey Franks (currently suspended), Dejuan Miller and Jaz Reynolds.

He has a good group of running backs as well, with Dominique Whaley, Roy Finch and Brennan Clay.

Others will say that Andrew Luck doesn't have any talent surrounding him either but Stefan Taylor is great at running back.  Luck also has an explosive receiver to work with in Chris Owusu.

As everyone knows, Robinson has not had a running back step up and help carry the load.  Roy Roundtree and Junior Hemingway are certainly solid at receiver, but not great.

Robinson means more to Michigan than any other player does to their respective team.